Twenty-four teams will compete in B1 in 2022-23, an increase of two from last season. It’s the most teams in the top flight in league history.
"I would like to take a leap forward with my experience of winning this time," Agu said after securing Japan’s first-ever stage victory on the tour.
Anzai spent 15 seasons with the club as a player, assistant coach and head coach. He said the B.League team needs new leadership.
The departing Tokyo and Chiba bench bosses guided the perennial title contenders with astute leadership and passion.
Makoto Hiejima earns playoff MVP honors after scoring a game-best 24 points in the Brex’s title-clinching win.
Utsunomiya outscored Ryukyu 26-5 in the final period, turning a close game into a rout.
Ryukyu is making its first appearance in the circuit’s championship series, while Utsunomiya is back for the third time in six years.
Ryukyu ended Shimane’s title hopes on the final play of their semifinal series, and Utsunomiya swept Kawasaki in the other series.
In the next postseason round, the Brave Thunders play host to the Brex and the Golden Kings face the visiting Susanoo Magic.
Backup forward Chase Fieler exemplified the Brex’s productivity at both ends of the floor last weekend.
In the Crane Thunders’ first season in the B. League first division, the team’s strong fundamentals have helped position them for a run at the playoffs.
Alvark coach Luka Pavicevic’s squad focused on playing more aggressively in its weekend rematch with the Kawasaki Brave Thunders, and the strategy paid off.
