Alvark and NeoPhoenix both have ways to reach the paint, but the possession after the first score may decide their meeting. Davis can draw contact and create for another finisher, while Rossiter and Johnson can start an Alvark reply. Saga and Chiba pose a different question: how long an early Chiba lead can survive the later possessions.
NeoPhoenix's visit to Alvark turns on Davis's drives, Sasaki's organization and the extra finishes from Brown, Harrellson or Van Tubbergen. Alvark reached the paint at Sendai, yet could not finish enough defensive stops afterward; its last two closing quarters each gave up 31 points. Jarreau played the latest game with fewer minutes than before, and the starting fives are still unconfirmed. NeoPhoenix's Ryukyu response brought free throws and several scorers rather than a single hot shooting source. That's why I'm siding with NeoPhoenix to turn its repeated attacking possessions into the stronger finish.
Chiba's Togashi, Randolph and Watanabe can create an early gap against Saga, which has recently started slowly. Saga's Little, Olivier and Xzavierro played together in its latest game, and a longer break gives those roles time to connect; their active roster is not yet confirmed. Chiba let a sizable lead slip into overtime in its latest game, making Saga's later drives, boards and Kishida's bench scoring important to the final margin. That's why I'm siding with Saga to keep the gap inside the available cushion.
