Chang's Block Party and Prowlers' Barrage Sink Samurai 109-98
Prowlers' Late Surge Propelled by Chang's Defensive Prowess and Offensive Fire
TOKYO – The Denver Prowlers weathered an early storm and then unleashed a second-half offensive onslaught, ultimately defeating the Tokyo Samurai 109-98 in a hard-fought Pro League clash. Denver’s victory was punctuated by a dominant defensive effort, particularly from Chloe Chang, who made crucial blocks in the closing minutes to seal the win.
The first half saw both teams trading blows, with the Samurai’s Rhys Caldwell (20 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists) and David Miller (15 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists) keeping Tokyo within striking distance. However, the Prowlers, led by a stellar performance from Chloe Chang (23 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists), began to pull away in the third quarter.
A pivotal moment arrived with just over three minutes remaining. Trailing by a slim margin, Chang swatted away two crucial shot attempts from the Samurai, preventing potential tying baskets. This defensive intensity seemed to ignite Denver’s offense, as they proceeded to hit a barrage of shots, including timely three-pointers that stretched their lead.
“We knew they had shooters, and we had to lock in on defense,” said Prowlers’ guard Maya Reed, who contributed 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. “Chloe’s blocks were huge. They gave us the momentum we needed.”
Despite a valiant effort from the Samurai, their shooting struggled throughout the game, particularly from beyond the arc (28.9% 3PT). Denver, on the other hand, found their rhythm, converting 39.1% of their three-point attempts.
“We just couldn’t find our consistent scoring touch tonight, especially in the second half,” lamented Samurai coach Hiroshi Tanaka. “Denver’s defense made it tough, and Chang was a force to be reckoned with.”
The Prowlers’ victory was solidified at the free-throw line, where they shot a near-perfect 78.6%, while the Samurai faltered at 56.5%.
Key Notes:
- Denver Prowlers shot 18-for-46 (39.1%) from three-point range.
- Chloe Chang recorded 3 blocks, including a critical late-game sequence.
- Tokyo Samurai shot only 13-for-23 (56.5%) from the free-throw line.
- Rhys Caldwell led the Samurai with 20 points and 5 steals.