The Basketball Sensei

Kobayashi Sensei was an incredible coach I had the privilege of meeting during a camp in Shizuoka, Japan. His generosity, kindness, and unwavering willingness to help made a strong impression. As I prepared for my senior year of college basketball, we asked if we could use his gym for workouts. Not only did he offer us gym time, but he also went out of his way to personally pick us up and drive us there. His dedication to the kids he coached was just as inspiring. He spoke passionately about his love for seeing his players grow, both in basketball and in life. It seemed like everyone in Shizuoka knew him, and they all spoke highly of him.

Our relationship with Kobayashi Sensei began in 2022 through one of our coaches, Jondy, who had been an ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) in Ito, Shizuoka. Jondy had worked as an assistant basketball coach for Kobayashi Sensei, and through that connection, OTM was introduced to him. Over the years, our bond has grown, and each time we visit, we have the privilege of ministering to Kobayashi Sensei and his wife, Mari. Their hospitality and warmth have left a lasting impression on all of us.

Original Photo of Mari (Koboayshi’s Wife), Kobayashi Sensei, Mike, and Jondy in 2022 at Kadono Jr. High.

One particularly memorable moment was when Kobayashi Sensei invited our team to an onsen (Japanese spa). It was there that we had a deep conversation about faith. Through Kanta, one of our translators, I asked if he believed in God. He shared that he believed in many gods and thought all religions were true. I gently challenged some of his beliefs, and it was clear he took each question seriously. One question that stood out was when I asked, “What do you believe happens when you die?” His response surprised me: “You know, I’ve never thought about that before.” For someone in his early 60s, this realization was striking.

Kadono Jr. High Basketball Clinic

I shared the gospel with him, and by the end, he admitted that Christianity was something he might need to consider and explore further. It was an incredible moment to plant that seed, and it encouraged our whole team. Please keep Kobayashi Sensei and his wife in your prayers, asking that God would reveal Himself to them both.

Written by

Rico Hopping