Jones Cup: Taiwan Blue narrowly escapes Japan after late comeback attempt

Taiwan Blue secured a narrow 70-66 victory over Japan in their opening Jones Cup match, thanks to a clutch performance from Song Hsin-yao. The team, built around the Nagoya Asian Games squad, initially dominated, establishing a 16-1 lead in the first quarter with strong defense and contributions from Chen Chiang-shuang. They held a double-digit lead throughout the first half, ending it up 35-25.

However, Taiwan Blue's offense stalled in the second half, allowing Japan to chip away at the deficit. By the end of the third quarter, the lead had shrunk to just three points. Japan even took the lead in the fourth quarter, with Matsumoto Hata hitting a game-tying three-pointer and then another to put his team ahead.

In the critical moments, Song Hsin-yao stepped up, scoring 12 points in the final quarter. His efforts, including a crucial steal and assist to Wu Chih-kai, helped Taiwan Blue regain control. Song sealed the victory with two free throws in the closing seconds, finishing with a game-high 24 points. Chen Chiang-shuang added 12 points for Taiwan Blue, while Hayato Yukikawa led Japan with 19 points and 8 rebounds.

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CBA's top draft pick Song Hsin-yao stepped up, scoring 12 points in the final quarter. His efforts, including a crucial steal and assist to Wu Chih-kai, helped Taiwan Blue regain control. Song sealed the victory with two free throws in the closing seconds, finishing with a game-high 24 points.