Gumma Prefecture is also located in the Kanto Plain and is positioned to the west of Tochigi Prefecture.
Overview
| Official Website | https://g-crane-thunders.jp/ |
| Founded | 2011 |
| What Crane Thunders Represents | The name draws inspiration from symbols of Gunma: the 'Flying Crane Shape of Gunma' and 'Thunder.' The crane, a symbol of Japan, evokes elegance, grace, and agility, while thunder represents Gunma’s identity, embodying energetic power and a sense of speed. |
| Team Colors | Black, Yellow, Red |
| Arena | Open House Arena Ota(Capacity approx. 5,000) |
| Main Sponsor | Open House |
A rapidly growing club backed by significant capital.
The club started in B2 when the league was founded but was promoted to B1 in 2021. They have yet to make a playoff appearance.
The population of Gunma Prefecture is approximately 1.9 million.
Notable Japanese (Asian) Players to watch
They have an impressive lineup of talented players.
Michael Parker(6-61/2, F, The Evergreen State College)
A veteran naturalized player turning 42 years old.
He still exudes a powerful presence, contributing significantly, especially on defense.
Notable Foreign (Naturalized) Players to watch
The foreign players are not only strong but also have considerable depth.
Trey Jones(6-5, G/F, Miami(FL))
Gunma's leader. A versatile player.
Johannes Thiemann(6-9, F, Germany)
Newly joined. A member of the current German national team.
Gunma's signings always surprise me. Please refer to this article.
Head Coach: Kyle Milling
A surprising figure, but one of the most successful coaches in Japan. Though Milling’s coaching career was unknown after his playing days at UC Santa Barbara and Oregon, it seems that his coaching foundation was built during his time as a professional player in France.
Last season, he led Hiroshima to their first B1 championship in an upset victory, and now he takes on a new challenge with Gunma.
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