Ai Shinozaki takes part in B.LEAGUE ceremonial opening shot, shot draws cheers

Gravure idol Ai Shinozaki, 34, appeared for the ceremonial first shot on the 19th during the men's B.LEAGUE game between the Chiba Jets and the Tokyo Sunrockers at Lala Arena Tokyo-Bay in Funabashi, Chiba Prefecture, and made a successful shot toward the basketball hoop.

The game was held as a "Satellite Office Presents" event, and Shinozaki, who serves as an advertising image character, appeared at the arena. She made several shots during practice, but before the actual event she said, "At a professional baseball ceremonial first pitch before, I succeeded in practice, but during the real thing it didn't go well," and appeared somewhat unsure of herself.

Shinozaki stepped onto the court looking slightly nervous. She energized the crowd by striking the "Satellite Office" pose, which she has also shown in TV commercials, in hopes of a Chiba Jets victory. She then took a shot at the basket, and the ball went cleanly through the hoop.

When the shot went in, Shinozaki showed a look of surprise and raised both hands in celebration. The crowd also reacted strongly, and the ceremonial first shot became a moment that heightened the atmosphere before the game.

B.LEAGUE's ceremonial first shot events are held at home games across the country as a way to draw attention from fans before games. Having guests take part from a different position than athletes gives people who do not usually watch basketball a reason to visit the arena.

Events tied to sponsor companies also support revenue for the league and its clubs. Attention will focus on how such events at games around the country broaden fans' interest going forward.

Basketball Press view

At B.LEAGUE games, events beyond the competition itself help broaden fan interest. This ceremonial first shot was an example of a celebrity who appears as an advertising character interacting directly with fans in the arena, and it also showed the relationship between sponsors and the club. Ceremonial first shots can be one-time news, but if held regularly they could become a gateway for audiences with little interest in basketball.

This article was written by the Basketball Press editors based on the cited reports. AI is used to assist in writing and translating our articles. Please check the source for full details and exact figures.