Bj-league commissioner Toshimitsu Kawachi believes the league's inaugural season was fairly successful. But he knows not to get too cocky, because fans will expect better for the second season.

"Last year, we were able to start this new league with support and cooperation," Kawachi said at a news conference at the league's office in Tokyo's Ginza district on Monday. "I feel like our effort paid off."

With the 2006-07 season getting under way on Saturday throughout the nation, Kawachi couldn't hide his high expectations of his own league, which started with six teams last year. The bj-league expanded to include eight teams with the additions of two ballclubs, Takamatsu Red Arrows and Toyama Grouses, for this season. The number of games increases to 160 games in total as well.