The final of the All-Japan Championship was held to decide the best men's basketball player in Japan, and the Chiba Jets made 21 three-point shots and defeated the Ryukyu Golden Kings by a huge margin of 117-69, winning the championship for the second consecutive year and for the fifth time.
The final of the Emperor's Cup, the All-Japan Men's Basketball Championship, was held at the Saitama Super Arena in Saitama City, with Chiba and Ryukyu playing the same team as last year.
In the first quarter, Ryukyu, who had the advantage in height, racked up points, including from under the goal and from two three-pointers by playmaker Ryuichi Kishimoto.
On the other hand, Chiba took a 4-point lead thanks to three points and drives by Japan representative Shuta Hara.
In the second quarter, Chiba found a flow with their solid defense and ended the first half with a large lead of 48-32 thanks to consecutive three-pointers from captain Yuki Togashi.
Chiba's unique offensive power shined in the third quarter as well, scoring 37 points from six three-pointers and offensive rebounds. We won the number one title in Japan for the second time.
As a team, Chiba made 21 three-pointers with a success rate of 56.8%, which was a high percentage, and they also dominated in rebounds, 49-37, against an opponent that was superior in height.
Ryukyu, on the other hand, led the attack with Kishimoto scoring 13 points, including three three-pointers, but struggled against Chiba's tough defense, and the team's overall three-point success rate was only 23.1%. The bottom team was also dominated by their opponents and could not win their first championship.
Togashi: “I think it was the result of the entire team working together.”
Yuki Togashi of the Chiba Jets, who hit six three-pointers and won the Most Valuable Player Award, said, ``I have nothing but the best to say. 15,000 fans came out and we were able to play in this atmosphere.'' I feel happy," he said.
Regarding the three-pointers, for which the team as a whole had a success rate of over 56%, he said, ``The shots were taken by passing the ball around as a team and creating open conditions, so we were all able to score points and created a great offense. We were able to develop it. I think it was the result of the entire team working together," he said with pride.
Looking ahead to the upcoming league games, he said, ``Although we are behind in the league games this season, I want to continue this momentum and avenge the frustration of losing to Ryukyu in the finals last year.'' .