When opportunity knocks, Takeki Shonaka is ready to answer the call.
This season, the veteran guard has been thrust into a bigger role due to the Alvark Tokyo's depleted depth in the backcourt. Rising star Yudai Baba left the squad in the offseason and now plays for the NBA G League's Texas Legends. Backup point guard Genki Kojima suffered a right knee injury (torn meniscus) and underwent surgery on Oct. 28. Kojima is expected to be sidelined for the rest of the season.
As a result, Shonaka has received additional playing time this season.