Sunrockers Shibuya hosted a pre-draft workout on January 13th, giving Nihon University standout Rakuto Arai a chance to impress ahead of the B League Draft 2026, where Sunrockers Shibuya holds the first overall pick.
Arai Finds Calm Under Pressure in Pre-Draft Showing
The Nihon University star says he felt surprisingly relaxed during the workout, allowing his skills to shine.
- The Sunrockers Shibuya pre-draft workout offered a different evaluation format than the league-wide combine held in December.
- Arai, a 190 cm, 90 kg shooting guard/small forward, is focusing on improving his 3-point accuracy and defensive skills for the professional level.
- Despite some anxiety about the uncertainty of the draft, Arai is eager to begin his professional career and contribute to a team.
Arai shared that he initially anticipated feeling nervous, given the presence of familiar faces from his university days, but found himself surprisingly composed. “I thought I would be nervous at first because I had a lot of friends and people I worked with at university,but I was surprisingly relaxed,so I think I was able to bring out my play and strengths,” he said.
Unlike the B League Draft 2026 Combine held in December, this workout was club-led, providing a more intimate evaluation process. Ten university players who had declared for the draft participated in drills, including 1-on-1 and 2-on-2 scenarios, under the scrutiny of SR Shibuya’s leadership and current players. This offered the athletes a preview of the professional standards thay’ll face.
Arai has consistently demonstrated scoring ability since joining Nihon University after playing for Numazu Chuo High School. He acknowledges that improving his 3-point shooting is a key area for growth. “The biggest challenge is the accuracy of the 3-point shot,” he stated. He also emphasized his commitment to strengthening his physical game, anticipating tougher matchups against international players.”I think there will be more matchups with non-college-level foreign players, so I want to train my legs and physique to be able to compete irrespective of whether they’re Japanese or foreign,” Arai explained.
[Photo]= Basketball King
Many college players have already begun their professional careers this season, but Arai intentionally chose to complete his four years at Nihon University before entering the draft. While acknowledging the anxiety surrounding the draft on January 29th, he maintains a positive outlook. “There are parts of me that feel anxious,” he admitted, “but it’s not something I can control.” He expressed his eagerness to join a team and showcase his abilities, stating, “I wish I could go to practice with the team that is calling me and show off my play. The only thing left to do is do it.”
Looking ahead, Arai aspires to contribute to the Japan national team and enjoy a long and successf
