Japanese Basketball Association sets sights on Rio after FIBA verdict
Japan have been given hope of competing in the 2016 Olympic Games after FIBA partially lifted their international suspension.
The Japanese Basketball Association (JBA) has set its sights on the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio after FIBA confirmed it would be allowed to participate in international competitions again.
In November, the JBA was suspended by world governing body FIBA after failing to re-organise the game in the country, with a task force set up to solve the problems.
Nearly seven months later a report has shown progress in the country's domestic league, governance and basketball development, leading FIBA to initiate a potential U-turn on its suspension.
"Based on the progress outlined in the report, Japan national teams have been authorised to resume preparations - including playing international warm-up games at home and abroad - for all competitions including the 2015 FIBA Asia Championship and FIBA Asia Women's Championship," a FIBA statement read.
A full lifting of the sanction is expected to be confirmed at a central board meeting in August.
JBA chairman Saburo Kawabuchi hailed the progress made within the sport and is keen to ensure the national teams are present on the biggest stage next year in Brazil.
"The decision must be regarded as a first towards a big leap in the future of basketball in Japan," he said. "Until now we haven't even been able to discuss playing games on an international level, but we can now engage in such talks."