The Yonsei Basketball Association continues its long-standing cultural exchange tradition by selecting a new group of 12 boys and 12 girls to travel to Japan this summer.
Now in its 33rd year, the program continues its mission of connecting young student-athletes to their cultural roots while fostering personal growth both on and off the court. Participants will take part in a combination of basketball, community engagement, and immersive cultural experiences designed to build leadership, independence, and lasting friendships.
Many of the selected players have spent years competing against one another in leagues such as SEYO, JAO, CBO, and CYC.
The Y33 teams will travel to Kochi in July to participate in a homestay program with local families. In addition, players and their families will visit Tokyo, Hiroshima, and Osaka to further explore Japan’s culture.
Coaching the Y33 girls’ team are Kayla Shikina and Kara Ito. The Y33 boys’ team will be coached by Brandon Chan and Victor Johnson.
The girls’ team is Kacey Hara, Kierra Hata, Grace Kawaguchi, Penelope Liu, Kalei Morris, Chyler Nakano, Kenzie Nguyen, Kamryn Nobuyuki, Madison Noguchi, Alexis Shimazaki, Ryan-Pixley Takenaka, and Keira Tran.
The players for the boys’ team are Benjamin Arnold, Dexter Chang, Jackson Kawaguchi, Bryson Kiyomura, Trevor Kudo, Taylor Lew, Dylan Matsushita, Derrick Noguchi, Oscar Riggins, Acen Toshima, Greyson Vuong, and Ryan Yamada.
Leading up to the trip, participants will attend regular practices and cultural workshops to prepare for their experience abroad. Fundraising efforts are currently under way, including raffle tickets and Yonsei 33 T-shirts.
The Yonsei Golf Tournament, was held on Monday, June 22, at Candlewood Country Club. Community support plays an important role through donations for the silent auction and raffle, as well as participation in the golf tournament.
Prior to departure, the Y33 teams will also take part in exhibition games alongside the Y32 teams on Sunday, July 12, with the location to be announced at a later date.
For additional information or to support the program, email info@ yonseibasketball.org, visit www.yonseibasketball.org, or follow Yonsei’s social media accounts for updates.