Sunrockers Shibuya vs Nagoya Diamond Dolphins

Recap

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Diamond Dolphins (8-7) against seventh ranked Hitachi Sunrockers (8-6) on Saturday night. Visiting Diamond Dolphins were defeated by Hitachi Sunrockers in a tough game in Tokyo 84-88. Hitachi Sunrockers made 18-of-20 charity shots (90.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Diamond Dolphins turnovers. American Ryan Kelly notched 27 points and 6 rebounds to lead the effort and international point guard Leo Vendrame supported him with 21 points and 5 assists. Even 21 points and 8 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) by American forward Justin Burrell did not help to save the game for Diamond Dolphins. His fellow American import forward Jeff Ayres added 10 points and 11 rebounds for the guests. Four Diamond Dolphins players scored in double figures. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Hitachi Sunrockers have an impressive five-game winning streak. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Akita NH. Diamond Dolphins at the other side keep the third position with seven games lost. Hitachi Sunrockers’ next round opponent will be again higher ranked Diamond Dolphins (#3) in Nagoya and it may be quite challenging game.