Alvark Tokyo announced on July 12, 2026 that they have signed US center Matt Costello to a record‑breaking B.League contract. Costello, who earned roughly €2.3 million in the 2025‑26 season with Valencia Basket, chose the Japanese offer over his European options.
Why did Costello pick Japan?
Costello previously played for Baskonia, a club that has built a pipeline to Japan. The Chiba Jets proposal was described as “outside the market”, highlighting the B.League’s new financial muscle capable of matching top EuroLeague salaries. While the exact figure wasn’t disclosed, analysts estimate it exceeds the €4.5 million total he earned over two seasons in Spain.
Alvark Tokyo’s link to past Japanese transfers
Three former Baskonia players have headed east in recent years. Milko Bjelica (2013‑15) finished his career with Alvark Tokyo and won the Japanese championship, raising the league’s profile. In 2024, Estonian big man Maik Kotsar signed with the Yokohama B‑Corsairs and quickly became a dominant interior presence. Costello’s arrival continues that trend and pushes the league’s competitiveness higher.
Costello’s role and expected impact
In the 2025‑26 season Costello posted 13.2 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game for Valencia. Alvark Tokyo plans to use him as a paint anchor, boosting inside scoring and rebounding. He will also reunite with Adrian Kovacs, Valencia’s former assistant who now coaches the Chiba Jets, adding a tactical familiarity that could translate into fast‑break efficiency and solid pick‑and‑roll execution.
What’s next and how it affects the B.League?
Costello’s contract outbid several European suitors, signaling that the B.League is no longer just a “final‑year destination” but a market that can attract EuroLeague‑level talent. Alvark Tokyo aims to contend for both the domestic title and the Asian Champions Cup next season. Japan’s basketball scene appears set to keep drawing high‑profile imports, reshaping the global talent landscape.