On the evening of October 11, 2024, Tokyo United BC faced off against the Iwate Big Bulls at Ariake Arena for their third-round opener of the B3 League’s 2024‑25 season. Under bright lights and in front of energized home fans, Iwate delivered a commanding performance, defeating TUBC 86–72 in a contest defined by their physical edge and ball movement.
The Big Bulls seized control early, leveraging aggressive defense and offensive rebounding to swing momentum. They outgunned Tokyo United on the glass with 25 offensive rebounds, which translated into second-chance points and extended possessions that kept the hosts under pressure. Their efficient team offense totaled 23 assists, showcasing sharp passing and deliberate spacing that wore down the defense.
Standout performances anchored Iwate’s win. American forward Clay Mounce led the way with a double-double—scoring 17 points, hauling in 14 rebounds, and dishing five assists. Point guard Harumichi Ishikawa added 18 points and 6 assists, deftly orchestrating tempo and providing perimeter scoring. Together, the duo illustrated the depth and versatility that positioned Iwate as an early-season frontrunner.
Tokyo United, fielding a roster built around their triple-tower international lineup—Angelo Chole (#7), Locus Gustis (#22), and Reese Varg (#25)—found themselves outmatched in the paint. Despite their size, they couldn’t negate Iwate’s second-chance opportunities. Still, the hosts showed flashes of promise, particularly in transition offense and perimeter shooting, but lacked consistency at key moments.
Going forward, Iwate’s ability to back up this result against other strong frontline teams will be closely watched. As a former B2 League club returning to B3 this season, they remain a serious promotion contender, solidifying their status early with a convincing road win in Tokyo.
As the league pushes forward into its full schedule—spanning 17 clubs, 442 total games, and over six months of play—the victory over a competitive Tokyo United side sets a high bar for the Big Bulls. The season promises to be tightly contested, but for now, Iwate’s control of rebounds, tempo, and team execution signal they have the blueprint to stay at the top of the standings.
Official Links
TUBC vs Iwate Big Bulls Match Details: https://tubc.tokyo/game_info/2024vsiwate/
B3 League 2024‑25 Season Schedule & Standings: https://www.b3league.jp/archives/25407/
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