Announcement of Shusuke Ikuhara's Retirement

We sincerely appreciate your continued understanding and support for the Shinshu Brave Warriors.

We would like to announce that Shusuke Ikuhara, player for the Shinshu Brave Warriors, has decided to retire from professional basketball at the conclusion of the Risona Group B.LEAGUE 2025-26 season.

Having joined the Shinshu Brave Warriors in the 2022-23 season, Ikuhara has supported the team for four seasons. With extensive experience and high basketball IQ, he led the team on the court through composed game management and selfless play, serving as a role model for younger players and making a significant impact on the team.

We express our deepest respect for Ikuhara's achievements and contributions, and sincerely wish him continued success in his future endeavors.

Shusuke Ikuhara

Date of Birth: May 24, 1994

Height/Weight: 182 cm / 80 kg

Position: PG

Registered Number: 46

Hometown: Tokushima Prefecture

Career: Tokushima Municipal High School

→ University of Tsukuba

→ 2016–18 Tochigi Brex (including special designation) ※ now Utsunomiya Brex

→ 2018–19 SeaHorses Mikawa

→ 2019–22 Yokohama B-Corsairs

→ 2022–26 Shinshu Brave Warriors

Awards: Outstanding Player Award (Best 5) at the 67th All-Japan University Basketball Championship, Assists Leader

Outstanding Player Award (Best 5) at the 68th All-Japan University Basketball Championship

National Team Experience: Japan U22 National Team (2016)

Japan U24 National Team (2017)

Message from Shusuke Ikuhara:

"I have decided to conclude my professional basketball career.

Retirement was a courageous decision for me.

While I still have the desire to continue competing, I feel that my body and mind, worn down by years of injuries, have reached their limit, leading me to this decision.

Much of my long athletic career has been a battle against injuries.

There were times when prolonged absences and repeated injuries left me emotionally drained.

Yet, each time, I was able to return to the court thanks to the support and passion of many people. These experiences have taught me and given me profound insights.

I also had irreplaceable encounters in every city I played in. Through engaging with local cultures and histories, I grew to love each community. Every city I lived in holds a special place in my heart.

Even visiting away cities was enriching, and I wish I could have experienced even more.

I have been blessed with countless meaningful connections.

I believe these accumulated experiences and relationships have shaped who I am today.

Basketball has expanded my world far beyond the sport itself.

The experiences I've gained will remain part of my daily life and continue to support me in the future.

I sincerely thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career.

Thank you very much."

Message from Yasuyuki Kido, President & CEO:

"Shuu, thank you for your dedication over your nearly 10-year professional career.

Your final four seasons with the Shinshu Brave Warriors were by no means easy. Yet, you never gave up, consistently encouraged the team, acted for your teammates, and made significant contributions to the club's growth and development. I offer my deepest respect and gratitude.

When I first became president, I was struggling with how the team and front office should collaborate and build unity. Shuu kindly reached out, openly sharing the club's challenges and the players' thoughts. I learned a great deal from him. His passion for reading, eagerness to learn, and thoughtful consideration for others had a positive influence across the entire organization.

As you begin this new chapter in life, please continue to walk your own path, true to yourself. On behalf of the club, I express our gratitude and sincerely hope you will carry forward the relationships you've built, transform your experiences in Shinshu into strength, and thrive in your next stage.

The club and I personally will wholeheartedly support your future journey. Thank you very much!"