Japanese publisher Hakusensha's Manga Lab blog's newest contest puts the judging in the hands of idol group Sphere. The singers are participating in part to celebrate their 10th anniversary.

Contestants will need to submit a manga of at least four pages focusing on the theme "best friends". Sphere members Minako Kotobuki, Ayahi Takagaki, Haruka Tomatsu, and Aki Toyosaki will choose the grand prize winner. The author will receive 200,000 yen (about US$1,850) and their entry will be adapted into a voice drama starring Sphere.

Sphere has performed multiple anime theme songs including the fourth ending of Zoids Wild, the opening for the Two Car racing anime, the ending theme for Bakuman. 3, and more.

Hakusensha launched its Manga Lab blog for aspiring manga creators on March 1.

Source: Comic Natalie