In 2009, Tokyo Jihen released the single "Nōdōteki Sanpunkan", which was their first song to feature in commercials for Ezaki Glico's Watering Kissmint brand of gum.
[4] Guitarist Ukigumo had previously written songs for the band's Variety album in 2007, most notably the single "OSCA".
These two were songs that vocalist Ringo Sheena had heard in the past, and considered "sporty", fitting the theme of the album.
[15] In the same period, it charted for a single week at adult contemporary radio stations, peaking at number 7.
[17] "Season Sayonara" was the most successful promotional single from Sports, beating "Kachi Ikusa" which had peaked at number 30, and "Denpa Tsūshin" and "Sweet Spot", neither of which charted.