Miracle in Overtime: Kanto University Division 1 League Sees Epic 16-Point Comeback Victory
A Fierce Battle that Went into Overtime: Meiji University’s Comeback Victory in the Kanto University Division 1 League
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Meiji University’s Comeback Victory from a 16-Point Deficit
Meiji University, currently at the bottom of the league with one win and four losses, was determined to make a comeback. Despite a poor start, they changed their mindset in the second half and began scoring under the hoop, gradually narrowing the gap. In the fourth quarter, they caught up with their opponent’s back and went into overtime, where they persevered and won their long-awaited second win in the league.
Game Details
Date: August 24th to November 3rd
League: 100th Kanto University Division 1 League
Location: Yoyogi National Stadium 2nd Gymnasium and others
Match: Meiji University vs. Yamanashi Gakuin University
Score: Meiji University 77, Yamanashi Gakuin University 76
Starting Lineup
PG Hiramatsu Katsuki (4th year, Information and Communication, Fukuoka University Ohori)
SG Harima Daichi (3rd year, Information and Communication, Fukuoka University Ohori)
SF Muto Shuntaro (2nd year, Political Science and Economics, Kaisei International)
PF Ogawara Kanta (4th year, Business Administration, Yachiyo Shoin)
PF Tsukada Taisei (2nd year, Political Science and Economics, Tsuchiura Nihon University)
Game Highlights
In the first quarter, Tsukada took advantage of the size mismatch to score from inside. However, the opponent’s shooting power and speed proved to be a challenge, and the game developed into a two-point deficit. In the second quarter, the opponent’s momentum increased, and at one point, the gap was up to 16 points.
In the second half, Meiji University showed their determination. The third quarter was a long period of patience, but in the fourth quarter, they finally caught up with their opponent. Takamasa Hayama (International 4th year, Chubu University First) scored a steal and turned the tide in an instant. Hayama also made consecutive three-point shots immediately after, further raising the team’s morale.
Post-Game Comments
Takamasa Hayama
“The challenge is whether we can get off to a good start. We still have a lot of weaknesses in our defense, so we need to improve on that next time and play better to win the game.”
“I think it was good that I was able to hustle there. We weren’t doing well up until then, but I made a three-point shot and the mood on the team really improved.”
“First of all, I was conscious of not letting him make a 3-point shot. He’s a player who can make any shot, no matter how tough it is, so first of all, I was very conscious of not letting him make it, and secondly, not letting him have the chance.”