He sank his body in a tiny chair — tiny for him — bending his back a bit, and gently talked with the reporters, looking at the eyes of each person.

News photoFumihiko Aono, right and fellow big man J.R. Sakuragi take a break during a recent Japan National Team practice at the Yoyogi Gymnasium annex. Japan competes in the FIBA Asia Championship, which starts on Saturday. KAZ NAGATSUKA PHOTO

Fumihiko Aono is that kind of guy. Despite his massive body, he is humble, calm, and polite to everyone he chats with.