Preview: Chanson Faces Haneda in Game 1 of Japan Women’s Basketball Playoffs

TOKYO (Interstat) — The Chanson women’s professional basketball team opens its playoff series on the road Sunday against Haneda, entering as a heavy favorite despite a middling regular season.

The Game 1 matchup, set for Feb. 8, 2026, in Tokyo, pits two teams at opposite ends of the standings. Chanson finished its season across all competitions with an 11-15 record. Haneda struggled profoundly, posting a 2-23 mark. According to Interstat’s ELO system, Chanson is projected with an 89.50 percent probability to win the series opener.

Recent history supports that projection. In their two regular-season meetings in late November, Chanson swept Haneda, winning 86-58 and 73-68. Chanson has shown more consistent form lately, splitting a recent four-game stretch that included two wins over Denso Iris. Haneda, conversely, is mired in a prolonged slump, losing its last three games by an average margin of 29.3 points, including a 94-50 defeat to Eneos on Feb. 1.

A key player for Chanson will be guard Minami Shirasaki, who enters the playoffs in strong form. Over her last four games, she averaged 19.8 points, 6.0 rebounds and 4.3 assists, including a 26-point, 5-assist performance in a win over Denso Iris on Jan. 25.

Haneda will rely on center Channon Fluker to provide an interior presence. Fluker has been a consistent performer during the losing streak, averaging 16.0 points and 8.7 rebounds over her last three contests. Her ability to control the paint and defend the rim will be critical for the home team’s chances.

For Chanson, the series represents an opportunity to capitalize on a favorable playoff draw and build momentum. For Haneda, the playoffs offer a reset and a chance to defy a season of disappointment, beginning with protecting its home court in Game 1.

The teams will meet again in Tokyo for Game 2 of the series on Monday, Feb. 9.