Kobe Paras stays in Japan, signs with Altiri Chiba

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Filipino basketball superstar Kobe Paras will continue playing in the Japan B. League after finalizing a deal with the Altiri Chiba basketball club for the upcoming 2022-2023 season.

Paras decided to become a free agent and explore other offers from different division teams after his contract with the Niigata Albirex BB came to an end.

The six-foot-six high-flying small forward impressed during his debut season with the Albirex BB and averaged 8.2 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists.

Paras was quick to showcase his offensive artillery in Japan in his very first game where he exploded for 25 points, four assists, and two steals despite an 85-81 loss against Kyoto Hannaryz.

Kyoto was one of the most consistent-performing clubs in the league and was left clueless on how to stop Paras’ offensive versatility where he attacked them in the paint while shooting an efficient percentage from the perimeter and the three-point area.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of Altiri Chiba. Thank you to the management, team sponsors, and the coaches for giving me a chance to play in Japan again,” said Paras.

The former University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons swingman will still be playing under the Asian Player Quota rule and will seek to help Altiri improve and clinch a playoff spot.

However, Paras will face a tougher playing atmosphere once he suits up for Altiri after the team was promoted to Division I by the B. League management.

“He is a player of exceptional physical ability and has extensive experience playing in the B1 level. We are excited to see Altiri Chiba basketball evolve with his talent on this team,” said Altiri director Yoshihide Arai.