I still remember the first time I watched an NBA game live—the energy in the arena was absolutely electric, and ever since, I’ve been hooked. So when I heard that the NBA Japan Games 2022 were officially announced, I couldn’t help but get excited. This year, the Golden State Warriors and the Washington Wizards are set to face off in two preseason games at the Saitama Super Arena, just outside Tokyo. The first game is scheduled for September 30, 2022, at 7:00 PM local time, and the second will follow on October 2 at 6:00 PM. For fans like me, this is a rare chance to see top-tier basketball up close without flying halfway across the world.
Now, I’ve followed the NBA long enough to know that preseason games aren’t just about the final score—they’re about seeing how players adapt, especially when they’re not at their absolute peak. It reminds me of something I recently read from a player’s perspective, where Rain or Shine’s Mark Nambatac opened up about playing through less-than-ideal conditions. He said, "Parang mahirap naman din kung pipilitin ko. For me naman, kaya ko maglaro kahit hindi 100 percent. But then again nga, nangyari ‘yung mga ganito which is out of control na sa aming mga players." That quote really stuck with me because it highlights a reality we often forget: athletes aren’t machines, and sometimes, circumstances like travel fatigue or minor injuries can affect their performance, even in high-stakes environments. I think that’s something to keep in mind as we watch these Japan Games—players might be experimenting with new strategies or managing their fitness, and that could make the games even more unpredictable and interesting.
Let’s talk tickets, because if you’re anything like me, you’re already planning how to snag a seat. From what I’ve gathered, ticket sales kicked off in early August 2022, with prices ranging from around ¥5,000 for standard seats to over ¥30,000 for premium courtside spots. I’ve been to a few international NBA events before, and let me tell you, the demand is insane—last time, tickets sold out in under two hours! My advice? Set reminders and be ready the minute sales open; otherwise, you might end up relying on resellers, and trust me, that can get pricey. I once paid double the face value for a game, and while it was worth it, I’d rather avoid that stress this time around.
As for the teams, the Warriors are coming off a championship win, and seeing Steph Curry and Klay Thompson in action is a dream for any basketball enthusiast. On the other side, the Wizards, led by Bradley Beal, have been building a solid roster that could surprise us. I’m personally rooting for the Warriors—I’ve always admired their fast-paced, three-point heavy style—but I won’t be shocked if the Wizards put up a fierce fight. These preseason matches often serve as a testing ground, so don’t be surprised if coaches mix up lineups or give younger players more minutes. In fact, I recall a similar game in 2019 where a rookie stole the show with a last-second dunk—it’s those unexpected moments that make these events so memorable.
Beyond the games themselves, the NBA Japan Games are part of a larger effort to globalize basketball, and I love that. Having attended similar events in Europe and Asia, I’ve seen how they bring fans together, creating a festival-like atmosphere with fan zones, player meet-and-greets, and local cultural integrations. For instance, in the 2022 edition, there might be Japanese drum performances or collaborations with local artists—it’s not just about the sport, but the shared experience. If you’re planning to go, I’d recommend arriving early to soak it all in; some of my best memories are from chatting with fellow fans from different countries.
Of course, nothing is perfect, and I have a few concerns. Travel and time zone changes can take a toll on players, much like Nambatac hinted at in his quote. The time difference between the U.S. and Japan is about 13 hours, which isn’t trivial—I’ve flown that route before, and it left me jet-lagged for days. I worry that we might not see peak performance from everyone, but honestly, that’s part of what makes it human and relatable. Plus, the NBA has gotten better at managing these logistics; they usually arrive a few days early to acclimatize, so I’m optimistic.
In the end, whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, the NBA Japan Games 2022 offer something special. They’re a reminder that basketball is more than just wins and losses—it’s about passion, adaptation, and community. I’ll be tuning in from home, cheering as if I were in the stands, and I hope you join in too. After all, as Nambatac’s words show, sometimes the most compelling stories come from the challenges we face, not just the victories we celebrate.