Rui Hachimura described his excitement of leading a resurgence of interest in Japanese basketball following the national team's recent success.
Hachimura averaged 21.5 points and 6.0 rebounds in leading Japan to its first World Cup appearance in 13 years.
"Basketball's getting bigger in Japan and I want to be the guy, the face of it. I'm so excited about it. I want to be the guy who can be the whole well-rounded athlete for Japan," said Hachimura.
Hachimura added that he feels outside pressure from sneaker companies eager to develop his brand.
"Shoe companies tell me I'm going to be big. It's a bit of pressure. People expect me to be great, but it's not a big deal for me. I just have to do whatever I can on the basketball court and the rest will take care of itself."
Japan are in Group E with the USA, Turkey, and Czech Republic.
Via Fiba.Basketball