Apologies if this has been asked, but I think most award tickets in this thread are referring AA award tickets.

I'm EXP on AA, but I plan to transfer MB points to JAL to book Japan flights for next year. I know it's not great value compared to AA partner, but the extra 30 days to book will come in handy since I need to book multiple tickets.

I have no status through Japan Mileage Bank, but OWE through AA. Will I be able to select business class seats when I book through JAL? Are there any seats blocked for me on 773 or 789?