Japan - New Japan hoops coach Hobbs set to dig into task

From www.yomiuri.co.jp
Download source here

Just 10 days after arriving in Japan, David Hobbs admits he has been struggling to use chopsticks.

That means the new coach of Japan's national men's basketball team can probably relate to the nation's hunger for a winner.

The Japan Basketball Association introduced Hobbs at a press conference Tuesday in Tokyo, and the former Alabama and Virginia Commonwealth coach said he has a lot to learn about players here. He has a plan, though.

"Japan is surrounded by water," Hobbs said. "I say it's like being in a boat. We're all in a boat, and I just want to make sure we're all rowing in the same direction.

"I know that Japan is starving for a winner and that's what we're working for."

Japan has been bounced early in international play recently, and the JBA has turned to Hobbs to raise the bar.

"The truth of the matter is that we didn't make it past the preliminary round in the last world championships or the Olympics," said Osamu Kuraishi, JBA men's team director.

"We need to close the gap that exists between us and the world, and we have a burning desire to do that. And with that, I think the most important thing is to get back to the fundamentals.

"As a means to that end, we wanted a coach who puts a strong importance on that area."

Since arriving, Hobbs has been attending Japan Basketball League games to get an idea of what kind players he has to work with and what style of play he'll put together from the talent pool.

In addition to shooting and speed, he is targeting players with some intangibles.

"What I'm looking for when I when I watch those players is not only talent--obviously I think talent is important--but I want guys around us that work hard and are willing to be a teammate, willing to give up something they like to do for the betterment of the team," Hobbs said.

"I want the Japanese players that are going to play for the team to know that I have a passion for basketball, as a coach and a fan. And I want passionate players around me.

"I'm in the process of developing opinions about players, but I don't have any final opinions of players at this time," said Hobbs, who was a scout for the NBA's Charlotte Bobcats before taking over here.

Hobbs has spotted strengths and weaknesses while watching JBL games and practices. He said Japan must improve its rebounding and its lack of size up front will force it to be a running team. But he intends to take advantage of strengths and develop the weak areas.

"I have seen guys that handle the ball well, and even some of the bigger players are pretty good shooters and can handle the ball on the perimeter.

"The weakness that I've seen and that I'm hoping we can improve--and we will work to improve--is that it seems that body strength is a concern. We need to be more aggressive when we play, and more physical when we play. Inside is the challenge."