PLG Finals: Braves coach blames turnovers, not free throws, for Game 2 loss

The Fubon Braves fell to the Taoyuan Pauian Pilots 98-94 in Game 2 of the PLG Finals, allowing the defending champions to level the series. A critical factor in the loss was the Braves' abysmal free-throw performance, converting only 9 of their 20 attempts for a mere 45% success rate.

While both teams struggled with free throws in the previous game, the Pilots improved significantly to 75.8% in Game 2, whereas the Braves' performance worsened from 56.8% to 45%. Despite the poor shooting from the line, Braves head coach Chou Chih-hsin emphasized that turnovers were the primary reason for the defeat. The Braves committed 20 turnovers, compared to the Pilots' 11.

"Free throw percentage is definitely something we need to improve," Chou stated. "But the key to victory is controlling turnovers. We practice free throws a lot, so I won't blame the loss on that." He also noted that leading scorer Michael Goodwin showed signs of fatigue under pressure, impacting his defensive focus, which led to him being temporarily substituted. The team plans to adjust tactics to manage Goodwin's stamina better, thereby improving his defensive contributions.

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Free throw percentage is definitely something we need to improve. But the key to victory is controlling turnovers. We practice free throws a lot, so I won't blame the loss on that.