Date of publication: Jul 29, 2019
Julio Cesar Lamas
- Japan Men’s National Basketball coach
- Japan Basketball Association www.japanbasketball.jp
Date of birth: June 9, 1964
Hometown: Buenos Aires
Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 2 (as of July 2019)
Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?
Two years ago, I arrived in Japan to be the National Basketball Team’s coach. It was my first time in the country. Nowadays I live in Tokyo, an amazing city that combines modern buildings with beautiful parks. It is really clean and well organized, and the people are very nice. It offers a lot of cultural activities and sport events. I think it’s one of the best cities in the world.
Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.
I don’t have one motto for life. But my favorites in sports are:
“Play for the team, not for yourself,” “If the team is doing good, we are all good,” “Treat your teammates as you'd like to be treated,” “If we win, we all celebrate, if we lose, we all learn,” “No excuses,” “Practice every day at a 100% and leave your soul in the court every game.”
“Play for the team, not for yourself,” “If the team is doing good, we are all good,” “Treat your teammates as you'd like to be treated,” “If we win, we all celebrate, if we lose, we all learn,” “No excuses,” “Practice every day at a 100% and leave your soul in the court every game.”
Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?
I had the honor of coaching the Argentinian National Team and I feel proud of all the great things we achieved, such as American FIBA, World Cups, Olympic Games (Bronce medal in Beijing), etc. I’m also really proud of all teams I’ve coached in Argentina and Spain like San Lorenzo, Real Madrid, Boca Juniors. And now it's an honor for me to be the coach of Japan’s National Team.
Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?
My goal is to achieve Japanese basketball growth, from 3rd level up to 2nd level in Asia and Oceania. This is a region where Australia is the only nation that competes at 1st level. I want Japan to take part at important worldwide tournaments and be competitive. I would like to make the best out of this opportunity for my professional and personal development.
Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?
Last updated: Jul 29, 2019