[Basketball Cheer Songs] A curated selection of tournament theme songs and energizing anthems!

Buzzer BeaterUchida Yūma

Yuma Uchida “Buzzer Beater” Lyric Video

This is an ambitious work by Yuma Uchida that brilliantly captures the tension and exhilaration of the closing moments of a basketball game.

The way the game unfolds from both offensive and defensive perspectives creates a sense of realism that makes you feel as if you’re actually on the court.

Layered vocal work evoking a crowded defensive formation merges seamlessly with Uchida’s first attempt at rap, building a distinctive world of its own.

Included on the single “Over,” released in February 2020, it was also used as the ending theme for the anime Ahiru no Sora.

Its message of pushing forward through setbacks and failures will powerfully encourage not only students devoted to their basketball clubs, but anyone who continues to challenge themselves toward a goal.

BUZZER BEATERshiritsu ebisu chūgaku

[MV] Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku “BUZZER BEATER”

An anthem inspired by the “buzzer beater,” a dramatic shot just before the end of a game.

Selected as the official theme song for the national high school basketball championship, Winter Cup 2018, the track stands out with its uptempo beat and powerful choral work, expressing the passion and challenges of youths in the thick of their adolescence through straightforward lyrics.

Released in December 2018, it is also included on the album MUSiC.

Members Rika Mayama and Ayaka Yasumoto have spoken about the excitement they felt when the song played at the arena.

It’s a rousing support song that gives a strong push not only during basketball games, but to everyone striving toward their dreams and goals.

A Tiny Bit of CourageFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS 'A Tiny Bit of Courage'

For everyone on the basketball team who wants to perform at their best in games and practice, I recommend “Chippokena Yuuki” by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS.

It’s a heartwarming, hip-hop-style track with a memorable rhythmic beat and warm melody line.

The lyrics express a sincere desire to change oneself, something many people can relate to.

Listen to it together with your teammates, and the bonds forged through sweat and tears will grow even stronger.

FANTASTIC TUNEOno Kensho

[Official Video] Kensho Ono – FANTASTIC TUNE – Kensho Ono

This is Kensho Ono’s memorable debut single, resonating with a sense of speed in its melody and a powerful message.

Released in February 2014, it was used as the ending theme for the second season of the TV anime Kuroko’s Basketball.

The song gives a strong push to anyone taking on a challenge, singing of the determination to carve out a hope-filled future and the courage to follow one’s own path.

Its up-tempo sound and clear vocals are perfect for energizing sports scenes or for moments when you want to fire yourself up.

Truly fitting to color the heated battles of basketball, it continues to resonate in the hearts of many to this day.

Until the World Ends…WANDS

Until the World Ends... – WANDS (Full)

WANDS, a band that brightened Japan’s music scene in the 1990s.

Their hit song “As the World Ends…” was released in 1992 and is also known as the ending theme for the anime Slam Dunk.

The lyrics, which evoke a sense of lost love and the loneliness that follows, have resonated with many and made it a timeless classic.

It’s a recommended track for everyone who loves basketball and for those striving to move forward in their daily lives.

GOBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN「GO」

It’s a song included on BUMP OF CHICKEN’s sixth major original album, Butterflies, released in 2016.

It was used as the theme for the TV commercial “Go into the blue” for the social game Granblue Fantasy.

With its sense of dynamism and speed, I think it pairs well with basketball.

peace signYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Peace Sign

Kenshi Yonezu’s song, written as the opening theme for Season 2 of the youth anime My Hero Academia, is an anthem that powerfully portrays courage and challenge.

While acknowledging weakness, it follows a protagonist who takes a step toward their dreams, intertwining with a driving melody that stirs the listener’s heart.

Released in June 2017, the track topped the Billboard JAPAN Hot Animation weekly chart and became a massive hit, surpassing 300 million streams.

With its band-driven sound and Yonezu’s distinctive vocals, it’s a song that pushes all challengers forward.

Perfect for club practice or as a companion while watching sports—give it a listen.