When captivated by the performance of top athletes in games and competitions, one can't help but become interested in the equipment they use.Because in the casual selection of items, you catch a glimpse of your "uniqueness" unexpectedly.Moreover, there might be a hint supporting the breathtaking performance there.I wonder what kind of things are around Kai Toews, a professional basketball player.

Toews’s personal belongings, seemed to only carry the bare minimum. However, within that smartness, the figure of a man living with his favorite culture is clearly reflected. Being particular about necklaces and shoes is very close to the sense and style of HIPHOP that always comes from his headphones, and on the other hand, it’s interesting that he refers to himself as a “nerd”, creating a certain gap. We focus on the true character of a point guard who is known for his aggressive driving and high basketball IQ.

“When I was a child, I used to search on YouTube whenever I wanted to watch NBA players play. At that time, there were many highlight videos using HIPHOP as background music, so I became interested from there.”

If HIPHOP, which is one of the triggers for personality formation, is considered as side A, then hobbies would be side B. Especially games.”I enjoy games where you can develop characters in an open world. I assembled my computer by collecting parts myself.”

For Toews, the game is a moment of release from the pressure of being a professional athlete, and one of his relaxation methods. I also love saunas and hot springs, and if there’s a short holiday, I would go on a trip by myself. I’m a huge fan of delicious coffee and food, and recently, I’ve been hooked on touring tonkatsu restaurants by bicycle. There are days when I completely distance myself from Basketball itself during my off time.

“I play basketball because I love it and it’s fun. Throughout a long career, it’s important to maintain mental stability. To ensure that basketball doesn’t become boring, I am mindful of how I spend my time outside of it. When I joined Utsunomiya Brex as a rookie, there were many seniors who were good at switching between on and off, so I learned a lot from them.”

(Counterclockwise from left) Boston Bag / Y-3, Wristwatch / TISSOT, Repair Cream / COSME DECORTÉ, Shoes “Harden Vol.7” / adidas BASKETBALL, Headphones / CORSAIR, Necklace / Custom Order Item, Antiperspirant / Old Spice

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“The deciding factor of shoes is the striking coloring. I often choose relatively low-cut models.” In addition to the James Harden model, it seems that he often wears the Trae Young model as well.

A pearl necklace designed with one’s own surname “TOEWS” at the top.”It’s my favorite to the point where I would say, ‘Except during the game, I almost always wear this when I go out.’

I use Corsair’s gaming headset on a daily basis. “It’s a favorite item that I use when playing games or streaming videos,” says Toews, a gamer, making a choice that’s typical of him.

“I tend to have dry skin, but I feel like it’s been better since I started using this,” said about COSME DECORTÉ’s Liposome Advanced Repair Cream.

Reflecting on the victorious scenes he experienced with his former team, player Toews talks about the future.

“Everyone should strive for wonderful stats and MVP, these are important things. However, winning is not just about the individual or team, but it’s a special thing that brings happiness to everyone around them. I want to become a player who can deliver a victory. Therefore, I believe it is important to value creativity that isn’t afraid to choose both steady and dynamic plays.”

For the sake of the fans who support me. With the middle name “Justice” etched in his heart, Toews continues to aim for greater heights.

TEXT: Keisuke Honda
PHOTO: Ryo Kuzuma
EDIT: Yohsuke Watanabe (IN FOCUS)