I came across this bit of information today: The tallest man to be drafted to play in the NBA is from Kumamoto. Wikipedia says that Yasutaka Okayama was 7'8" (234 cm) when he was drafted, making him a bit taller than Manute Bol. Bol is still the tallest person to have played in the NBA because Mr. Okayama declined to enter into negotiations after he was drafted. – Kirk
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2015/05/20/basketball/hoop-hero-okayama-reflects-lost-chance/
