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Josh Scott Feels 19 Again: Former College Basketball Star Finds New Life—and Visibility—in Japan After Coming Out
READ TIME: 15 MIN.
Josh Scott’s basketball journey began in Monument, Colorado, where his talent quickly earned him recognition as a high school standout before he starred for the University of Colorado Buffaloes from 2012 to 2016. During his collegiate career, Scott was a two-time All-Pac-12 Conference honoree and led the Buffs to multiple postseason appearances, becoming one of their most reliable big men.
Despite his on-court success, Scott went undrafted in the 2016 NBA Draft, prompting him to seek opportunities overseas. He played a season in North Macedonia and then made the pivotal move to Japan, where he found a home in the B.League—the country’s top professional basketball circuit.
Scott’s career in Japan has spanned several teams, including Shimane Susanoo Magic, Ryukyu Golden Kings, Utsunomiya Brex, and most recently Yokohama B-Corsairs. His consistent rebounding and interior scoring have made him a valued presence, with game statistics reflecting his steady contributions.
Living abroad posed challenges and opportunities for growth. In interviews, Scott has described how adapting to a new culture and language tested his resilience, but also broadened his perspective. He credits Japanese teammates and fans for helping him feel welcome and supported as he navigated both professional and personal transitions.
In May 2025, Josh Scott publicly came out as bisexual in a heartfelt social media post, marking a watershed moment in his life and sending ripples through basketball communities in Japan, the United States, and beyond.
Scott explained that the decision to live openly was motivated by an urge to be true to himself and to provide visibility for other LGBTQ+ athletes who may feel isolated or uncertain about their place in sport. “I feel 19 again,” Scott shared in a recent interview, describing how coming out lifted a weight off his shoulders and reignited his passion for basketball.
The response from fans and colleagues was overwhelmingly positive, with messages of support flooding his social media. Scott’s openness has been praised as an important step for visibility in professional basketball, especially in international leagues where LGBTQ+ representation remains limited.
Japan’s sporting culture is still evolving in its approach to LGBTQ+ inclusion. While there have been major strides in public acceptance and legal protections, professional sports remain a space where few athletes feel comfortable coming out. Scott’s public announcement helps challenge stereotypes and creates new possibilities for others in the league and beyond.
Scott’s teammates and coaches have responded with respect and encouragement, according to statements shared with local media outlets. The B.League itself has been gradually embracing diversity initiatives, but Scott’s visibility as an out bisexual man sets a powerful precedent.
Scott has expressed hope that his story will inspire other athletes to live authentically, emphasizing the importance of representation for bisexual, gay, lesbian, transgender, and queer people in sports. He is considering involvement with advocacy organizations both in Japan and the United States, aiming to foster more inclusive environments in locker rooms and arenas.
He has also highlighted the need for mental health support for athletes navigating questions of identity, noting the positive impact that supportive communities and counseling can have on well-being.
At 32, Josh Scott continues to compete at a high level, recently logging double-doubles and helping his team in key matchups. He remains active on social media, sharing glimpses of his life in Japan and engaging with fans worldwide (Instagram: @joshua_scott40).
Scott’s journey reflects the evolving landscape of professional sports, where athletes are increasingly able to bring their full selves to their work. His story is a testament to the transformative power of authenticity, and to the ongoing struggle—and promise—of LGBTQ+ visibility in global athletics.
