The Akita Northern Happinets have endured an up-and-down season, but point guard Seiya Ando has emerged as a key contributor with a bright future in the league.
With 34 Happinets games in the books, Ando, a starter, has provided a glimpse of his potential and overall ability, contributing 10.7 points, 3.1 assists and nearly 1.0 steals a game.
This week, Ando, whose speed and athleticism have contributed to his growth as a player, was named to the Japan national team squad, guided by interim head coach Luka Pavicevic, that will face Iran in a pair of exhibition games in Sapporo on Feb. 10-11.