A Global Talent Joins the Spiders
The University of Richmond announced the addition of Arisa Ihara to its women's basketball roster for the 2026‑27 season, a move that underscores the program's ambition to blend domestic talent with international pedigree.
Ihara, a 6‑foot guard/forward from Meerbusch, Germany, arrives after a standout high school career in Japan and a series of performances with national youth teams that have drawn attention across continents.
Coach Alisa Kresge praised the newcomer, noting that Ihara's athleticism, versatility and the perspective gained from competing in Germany, Japan and at the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup make her a unique asset for the Spiders.
Beyond club play, Ihara has logged three years with the Japanese Youth National Team, captured multiple Hokkaido prefectural titles and earned Best Five honors in the Nissin Top League, where she averaged over 20 points per game.
Her recent stint at the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup in León, Mexico, where she helped Japan reach the quarterfinals, and a bronze‑medal performance at the China‑South Korea‑Japan Youth Sports Exchange Tournament further highlight her competitive edge.