Star power fuels Japan's table tennis, basketball, volleyball leagues abroad

SportsPopular players draw in fans from Taiwan, Philippines and ThailandPlayers pose during the season-opening press conference of the T.League. The opening matches of the league's ninth season will be held in Taiwan. (Photo by Yutaro Tahara)TAISUKE SUZUKI, YUTARO TAHARA and MASATO SUZUKIJuly 25, 2026 04:12 JSTTOKYO -- Japan's top leagues in table tennis, basketball and volleyball are staging more events across Asia, seeking to raise their international profiles by tapping into the popularity and talent of star players from overseas.