Ryukyu Golden Kings Fan-Favorite Alex Kirk Departs, Sparking Outpouring of Gratitude

On June 3, 2026, the Ryukyu Golden Kings of Japan's professional basketball league, the B.League, announced that center Alex Kirk's contract had expired and he would be leaving the team. Following the announcement, "Kirk" quickly trended on social media as shock and sadness spread among fans and the wider basketball community.

Known for his dedicated play inside the paint and overwhelming presence on the court, Kirk was a pillar of the team. Despite his intimidating and reliable demeanor during games, he was also beloved for his playful, humorous personality off the court, earning affectionate nicknames like "Kirk-chan" and "Kirk-chin" from fans.

"Thank you so much for these three years" — Fans express overwhelming gratitude

Immediately after the announcement, social media was flooded with messages of appreciation from fans. Comments included, "Kirk's parting message brings tears to my eyes," "Thank you so much for the last three years, you helped us so much," and "I never imagined a player of Kirk's caliber would join us, and I was so happy he stayed for three years. Thank you for protecting the paint alongside Cooley."

Many fans also recalled the roaring cheers Kirk received at the Okinawa Arena during national team exhibition games, showing how deeply his actions both on and off the court have been etched into the hearts of supporters.

Looking to the future and the Kings' next chapter

Kirk has enjoyed massive popularity since his time with his previous team, Alvark Tokyo. Longtime supporters sent him warm words of encouragement, saying, "I've admired you since your Alvark days, and I'll keep cheering for you wherever you go." Speculation about his next destination has already begun, with rival fans eager to recruit him: "Which team will he play for next?" "Please come to Kawasaki!" and "Welcome to Tachikawa!"

With several key players departing, all eyes are now on how the Ryukyu Golden Kings will rebuild their roster for the upcoming season. Fans across the nation are sending heartfelt wishes for the future success of Alex Kirk, the beloved "White Bear" who dominated the paint for so long.

The context

The B.League is Japan's premier professional basketball league, established in 2016. The Ryukyu Golden Kings, based in Okinawa, are one of the league's most successful and passionately supported franchises, playing their home games at the state-of-the-art Okinawa Arena. Alex Kirk, a former NBA player who suited up for the Cleveland Cavaliers, moved to Japan in 2017 to play for Alvark Tokyo, where he won back-to-back championships. He later joined the Ryukyu Golden Kings, becoming a vital interior force and a beloved figure. The formidable duo of Kirk and fellow American center Jack Cooley was affectionately nicknamed the "White Bears" by fans, celebrated for their dominance under the basket and their friendly, approachable personalities off the court.

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