Sendai 89ers edged Shimane Susanoo Magic 86-85 in a thrilling B1 League contest on October 26, 2026, with a late go-ahead basket deciding a game that featured 14 lead changes. The 89ers showed composure down the stretch to steal a narrow road victory in one of the most competitive matchups of the early season.

Match overview

The teams traded blows throughout, with Shimane holding a 22-20 lead after the first quarter before Sendai responded to take a 44-40 advantage into halftime. The third quarter was tightly contested, and the game entered the final period tied at 63-63. From there, neither side led by more than four points until the final possession.

The final minute was a tense exchange of free throws and contested shots, and Sendai’s execution in the closing seconds proved to be the difference.

Key moments

With the score tied 83-83 and just over a minute remaining, Shimane made one of two free throws to take an 84-83 lead. Sendai answered with a well-executed pick-and-roll that freed guard Ryota Kobayashi for a step-back jumper, putting the 89ers ahead 86-85 with 28 seconds left. Shimane had a final chance, but a contested three-pointer at the buzzer rimmed out.

Tactical story

Both teams shot the ball well, but Sendai’s ability to execute in the half court during crunch time stood out. The 89ers used ball screens to create mismatches and finished with 20 assists on 31 made field goals. Shimane leaned on their interior scoring and free-throw line, but they made only 15 of 21 attempts from the stripe, while Sendai converted 18 of 22.

Shimane won the rebounding battle 40-36, but Sendai’s guards did a better job of containing penetration in the final five minutes, forcing Shimane into tough mid-range looks.

Standout players

Sendai guard Ryota Kobayashi was the hero with 26 points and five assists, including the game-winning shot. Forward Jalen Brooks added 18 points and eight rebounds, while center Kenta Sasaki contributed 12 points and 10 rebounds. Shimane were led by center Alex Murphy with 22 points and 15 rebounds, and guard Yuki Tanaka added 19 points and six assists.

Season impact

The win is a confidence booster for Sendai, who proved they can close out tight games on the road. Shimane will be disappointed to let a winnable game slip away, particularly after controlling the glass. In a B1 League season where margins are often thin, this result could prove valuable for Sendai’s standings position and playoff ambitions.