game day takeaways from a w-league game

Earlier this month, I caught a W League (the Women’s Japan Basketball League) game in Tokyo

It was characterised with skilled and technical guards, athletic and dominant forwards, incredible ball pressure on defense and 3 point shooting that was exciting to watch. It is clear to me, watching the game that team training and team play were built on precision, pace and developing individual fundamentals regardless of experience, position and age.

Both teams came out ready from the whistle but the team that came out in front made more adjustments, took more risks that paid off and were relentless in execution.

Unlike many professional leagues, the W League grew from company-sponsored teams where athletes were employees as well as players. That culture created:

• Discipline and structure

• Long-term athlete development

• Strong organisational support

• Deep loyalty within clubs

The Technical Identity🎯

During the game, it was clear that both teams had a clear identity:

1️⃣ Skill First

Players from both teams demonstrated:

• Elite footwork

• Sharp ball movement with 0.5 second decision making

• High-percentage shooting

• Relentless defensive rotations

Rather than relying on size or physical dominance, the league emphasised:
Spacing. Pace. Execution.

2️⃣ Pace and Three-Point Shooting

Well before the global three-point explosion, both teams were comfortable playing:

• 5-out spacing

• Quick transition

• Drive-and-kick basketball

The Impact on Girls Basketball 🌱

Much of the growth has been directly influenced by and continues to influence grassroots development:

• More girls entering local programs

• Greater emphasis on skill fundamentals at younger ages

• Increased confidence in perimeter shooting

• More structured development pathways

The technical standard of young female athletes continues to rise because they now grow up studying elite W League players.

What We Can Learn at One Thru Five basketball💡

One Thru Five programs and training teaches powerful lessons in development:

🧠 1. Skill Before Size

We take the time to teach and learn fundamentals. Footwork. Shooting mechanics. Passing precision.
When fundamentals are strong, athletes can compete with anyone.

🏃‍♀️ 2. Pace Creates Pressure

Speed isn’t just athletic — it’s tactical.
Decision-making at pace separates good from great.

🎯 3. Culture Drives Standards

Consistency in training habits, respect for the game and team-first mentality build sustainable success.

Evolution shows that success doesn’t require the biggest athletes — it requires:

Discipline. Detail. Development.

And the next generation of athletes?

They’re already training with pace, purpose and precision — ready to elevate the game even further. 🏀