Nagasaki Velca 72 – 64 Ryukyu Golden Kings | B1 League | 26 May 2026
Nagasaki Velca pulled off a gritty defensive performance to defeat the reigning champions Ryukyu Golden Kings 72–64 in a pivotal B1 League showdown on Tuesday evening. The home side improved their playoff positioning with the hard-fought victory at Nagasaki’s Municipal Gymnasium.
Match Overview
The contest was a battle of contrasting styles: Ryukyu’s high‑tempo offense against Nagasaki’s disciplined half‑court defence. The Velca set the tone early by holding the Golden Kings to just 13 points in the opening quarter. Nagasaki built a 10‑point lead by halftime and never looked back, even as Ryukyu mounted a third‑quarter rally to cut the deficit to four.
Key Moments
- First‑quarter lockdown: Nagasaki forced five turnovers in the first 12 minutes, converting them into 12 fast‑break points. Ryukyu’s normally sharp three‑point shooting went ice cold (2‑of‑12 in the first half).
- Third‑quarter response: A 10‑0 run early in the third period brought the Golden Kings within 48‑44, but Velca guard Shota Watanabe answered with a timely three‑pointer and a steal‑and‑layup to restore order.
- Clutch free‑throw shooting: Nagasaki went 14‑of‑16 from the line in the fourth quarter, sealing the win despite a late Ryukyu push.
Standout Performers
Nagasaki’s American import Javonte Green led all scorers with 22 points and added 8 rebounds. Point guard Yuki Togashi orchestrated the offense with 6 assists and only 1 turnover in 32 minutes. For Ryukyu, veteran forward Nick Fazekas posted a double‑double (18 points, 11 rebounds) but received little support from his backcourt.
Season & Table Impact
The victory moved Nagasaki into fourth place in the B1 League standings with a 32‑18 record, strengthening their case for a direct playoff berth. Ryukyu, who came into the match holding the top spot, dropped to 35‑15 but remained in first place. The result also marked Nagasaki’s first win over the Golden Kings in three meetings this season, adding extra significance as the playoffs approach.

