A 14-2 run in the first quarter set the tone for Japan, which finished with five double-digit scorers.
The Akatsuki Five still have a shot at reaching the final eight, with a qualifying contest on Tuesday set to determine the team’s fate.
The legendary jockey rode Notturno to a three-quarter length victory over Peisha Es at Oi Racecourse in Tokyo’s Shinagawa Ward.
The Akatsuki Five outscored their Group C opponent 55-20 in the second half, turning a close game into a rout.
Yomiuri puts an end to 14-series win streak by Yakult, but still finds itself well back of its crosstown rival.
The NBA veteran adds leadership and valuable experience to the Akatsuki Five for July’s 16-nation tournament, according to Japan coach Tom Hovasse.
“I was really hoping that we could show the fans in Japan what we can do, and today I think we did it.” ―Tom Hovasse, Japan...
The 42-year-old lefty continues to impress for the high-flying Swallows.