Former UNC one-and-done Nassir Little inks one-year deal with Japan’s Chiba Jets…..
NASSIR LITTLE, a former standout freshman at North Carolina and a one-and-done product of the Tar Heel program, has charted a new path in his basketball career—this time overseas. Little has officially signed a one-year professional contract with the Chiba Jets, a leading team in Japan’s B.League, marking the beginning of the 2025–26 season abroad .
A journey shaped by promise and potential
Selected 25th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers, Nassir Little arrived at the professional ranks filled with promise. During his freshman year at UNC, he showcased dynamic athleticism, a developing offensive game, and defensive versatility that fueled a national reputation as a lottery-level talent. Upon entering the NBA, Little played four seasons with Portland before being traded to the Phoenix Suns ahead of the 2023 season .
Over his five-year NBA tenure, Little primarily served as a reserve wing, appearing in limited minutes behind established starters in both Portland and Phoenix. Though flashes of his high-flying ability and scoring talent emerged—typically in moments when injuries opened up playing time—Little was never able to cement a consistent role. As a result, he has opted to seek a fresh start abroad, a move that reflects his resilient pursuit of opportunity and development.
Why Japan and the Chiba Jets?
Japan’s B.League has evolved into a compelling option for American professionals hoping to revive or elevate their careers. With improved facilities, a growing fanbase, and competitive salaries, the league is increasingly attractive to former NBA players aiming to showcase their talents on an international stage.
For Little, joining the Chiba Jets offers several strategic advantages:
Expanded role and playing time: With the Jets, Little is expected to function as a go-to scoring wing, defensive stopper, and on-court leader—responsibilities that were simply not available during his reserve role in the NBA.
Skill development and confidence building: By logging high-leverage minutes and facing diverse international styles of play, Little can further refine his offensive polish, shooting consistency, and decision-making under pressure.
Professional resurgence: A strong overseas season can reopen NBA pathways, as scouts and front-office personnel increasingly track performance abroad. A standout year in Japan could become a launching pad for Little’s return to the NBA or move to other high-level global leagues.
What this means for the Chiba Jets
The Chiba Jets, headquartered in the Tokyo metropolitan area, have been among the upper echelon of B.League competitors. Their roster history includes multiple playoff appearances and championship runs. Adding Little bolsters their wing depth and adds athletic upside, enhancing both their scoring options and defensive flexibility.
Little’s presence also carries marketing appeal. His UNC pedigree and NBA experience present branding opportunities in fan engagement, merchandise, and community outreach—particularly among basketball followers familiar with his time at Carolina and in the NBA.
A pivotal moment in Little’s career arc
At just 24 (turning 25), Nassir Little remains in the prime of his athletic potential. While his NBA trajectory didn’t develop as many expected, it’s far from over. His decision to compete in Japan underscores a willingness to pivot and adapt, and it mirrors a trend among players seeking international competition to accelerate growth and relaunch their careers.
If Little can harness his athleticism, power a consistent offensive game, and deliver nightly impact, he may very well position himself for future opportunities—either returning to the NBA or solidifying a lucrative international basketball career.
Looking ahead
Preseason training: Little will join the Jets for summer practices and early-season exhibition games, where he’ll integrate into the system and build chemistry with teammates.
B.League debut: Japan’s regular season typically begins in October; all eyes will be on how quickly Little adapts to the cadence and style of overseas play.
Path to future contracts: A strong showing in 2025–26 could pave the way for either a multi-year stay in Japan, transitions to European leagues, or a return to the NBA.
Nassir Little’s move to the Chiba Jets isn’t just a change of scenery—it’s a strategic reset. As he takes on a starring role overseas, basketball watchers will be watching to see if this is the proevolution that resurrects his elite potential.