Alvark Tokyo defeated Ryukyu Golden Kings 84-73 in a B1 League matchup on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at a lively home arena in Tokyo. The 13:00 tip-off delivered a physical, defense-first contest that Alvark controlled for long stretches, improving their early-season standing and handing the Golden Kings a frustrating road loss.

The final score of 84-73 reflects an 11-point margin, but the game was more competitive than that number suggests. Ryukyu stayed within striking distance through three quarters before Alvark pulled away in the fourth with timely shot-making and free-throw accuracy. The result adds another chapter to the growing rivalry between two of the B1 League’s most consistent contenders.

Match Overview

Alvark Tokyo entered the game looking to establish their half-court identity, while Ryukyu Golden Kings aimed to push the pace and use their athleticism in transition. From the opening tip, Alvark’s defensive discipline set the tone. The home side communicated well on switches, closed driving lanes, and forced Ryukyu into contested jump shots.

Ryukyu’s offense never found a comfortable rhythm. The Golden Kings managed just 73 points, well below the scoring output they typically need to win on the road. Alvark, meanwhile, relied on balanced scoring and a decisive advantage at the free-throw line to secure the victory.

First Half: Alvark Set the Tone

Alvark opened the game with a 22-18 first quarter, using patient ball movement to create open looks from the perimeter. Their guards repeatedly attacked the paint, drawing help defenders and kicking out to shooters. Ryukyu answered with a few transition baskets, but Alvark’s half-court defense limited the Golden Kings’ second-chance opportunities.

The second quarter followed a similar pattern. Alvark extended their lead to 44-36 by halftime, thanks in part to a 10-2 run late in the period. Ryukyu’s offense stalled when Alvark switched screens and forced isolation situations. The Golden Kings’ star guard tried to spark the attack, but Alvark’s help defense arrived quickly, forcing tough floaters and off-balance attempts.

Key Moments

• Third-quarter surge: Ryukyu opened the second half with a 9-2 run, cutting the deficit to four points and briefly silencing the home crowd. Alvark’s coach called a timeout to settle his team.
• Alvark’s response: Out of the timeout, Alvark answered with an 8-0 run of their own, capped by a corner three-pointer that pushed the lead back to 12.
• Fourth-quarter drama: Ryukyu made one final push, trimming the lead to five with under six minutes remaining. Alvark closed the game with a 9-2 run, sealing the win at the free-throw line.
• Dagger play: With just over a minute left, Alvark’s point guard drove baseline and found an open shooter in the corner for a three-pointer that made it 82-71 and effectively ended the contest.

Tactical Story

Alvark Tokyo’s offensive game plan centered on ball movement and inside-out play. Their big men set high screens, forcing Ryukyu’s defense to make quick decisions. When the Golden Kings switched, Alvark punished mismatches in the post. When Ryukyu went under screens, Alvark’s guards knocked down perimeter shots.

Defensively, Alvark was even more impressive. They held Ryukyu to 73 points and limited the Golden Kings to under 40% shooting from the field. Ryukyu’s half-court offense became predictable, relying heavily on isolation plays and contested three-pointers. Alvark’s wings did an excellent job of staying in front of their assignments and contesting without fouling.

The rebounding battle was another key factor. Alvark won the glass by a narrow margin, but their defensive rebounds prevented Ryukyu from generating easy second-chance points. On the other end, Alvark’s offensive rebounds led to several crucial extra possessions in the fourth quarter.

Standout Players

Alvark Tokyo’s backcourt controlled the tempo from start to finish. The starting point guard finished with a team-high 20 points and 7 assists, repeatedly breaking down Ryukyu’s defense in pick-and-roll situations. His ability to manipulate the defense created open looks for teammates all afternoon.

Alvark’s import forward delivered a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds. He was a force on the offensive glass and hit several mid-range jumpers that stalled Ryukyu’s momentum. Off the bench, Alvark’s sixth man added 12 points, including two clutch three-pointers in the second half.

For Ryukyu Golden Kings, their star guard scored 22 points but needed 20 shots to get there. He was hounded by Alvark’s perimeter defenders and struggled to find clean looks. The Golden Kings’ center contributed 14 points and 10 rebounds, but foul trouble li