FILE–Juan Gomez de Liaño for Tokyo Z. B. LEAGUE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—Juan Gomez de Liaño had an abrupt end to his first Japan B.League stint but he went home bring valuable lessons from overseas.
In an interview with CNN’s Sports Desk, Gomez de Liaño said he still enjoyed his time in the second division of the professional league despite his disappointing run with the Earthfriends Tokyo Z.
Gomez de Liaño and Tokyo Z parted ways last month.
“Honestly, it was a great overall experience — just being on your own, being independent, getting things son your own,” said Gomez de Liaño.
“But being in a different country, a different environment and culture, a lot of struggles, honestly, challenges, ups and downs. I was glad I was able to overcome them.”
Gomez de Liaño was one of the nine Filipino players who suited up for clubs in Japan. He played in the B2 Division with Kemark Cariño.
His brother Javi signed with B1 club Ibaraki Robots.
The former University of the Philippines standout didn’t find consistent minutes with the Earthfriends and averaged 5.3 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists.
His best game in the B.League came in an 80-76 loss to Fukushima where he put up 15 points, nine assists, five rebounds, and three steals.
“As you know, they allow three imports per team as well. I noticed also that in the B League, it’s more organized basketball, they run a lot of set plays,” said Gomez de Liaño. “The players there are very disciplined, they have their own routine and stuff like that.”
Gomez de Liaño has been training with Gilas Pilipinas in preparation for the 2023 Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers later this month.