Kobe Storks 89-91 San-en NeoPhoenix — San-en NeoPhoenix escaped Kobe Port Arena with a 91-89 B1 League road victory on Saturday, October 24, 2026, closing with a composed 4-2 run after Kobe had tied the game at 87 in the final two minutes. The result gave San-en a valuable early-season road win and left Kobe with a narrow loss in a game it controlled for long stretches.

Match overview

The game was every bit as close as the final score suggests. Kobe opened with better rhythm at home, moving the ball patiently and attacking the paint through its frontcourt. San-en answered with quick transition baskets and timely three-point shooting, keeping the deficit within one possession for most of the first half. The teams traded the lead 11 times before halftime, with San-en taking a 47-45 edge into the locker room.

The third quarter followed a similar pattern. Kobe’s guards found driving lanes, while San-en relied on its half-court execution and offensive rebounding to stay level. Kobe held a 69-68 lead entering the fourth, setting up a tense finish in which neither team led by more than four points.

Key moments

• Kobe started strongly and led 24-21 after the first quarter, using an aggressive defensive stance and early baskets inside.
• San-en closed the second quarter on an 8-2 run, turning a three-point deficit into a 47-45 halftime lead.
• Kobe reclaimed a one-point advantage after three quarters, 69-68, behind back-to-back scores from its starting backcourt.
• With the score tied at 87, San-en forced a turnover and converted two free throws to take the lead for good, then sealed the win with a late defensive stop.

Tactical story

San-en’s ability to switch between man-to-man and a compact zone disrupted Kobe’s half-court rhythm in the closing minutes. The NeoPhoenix also won the rebounding battle, particularly on the offensive glass, which produced second-chance points at critical moments. Kobe shot well from the perimeter early but became more reliant on contested three-pointers late, and San-en’s guards did a better job of closing out without fouling.

Kobe’s pick-and-roll attack was effective for three quarters, especially when its big men rolled hard to the rim. However, San-en adjusted by sending weak-side help earlier, forcing Kobe’s ball handlers into sideways dribbles and delayed decisions. That subtle change helped San-en control the final three minutes.

Standout performers

San-en’s import forward delivered a strong two-way performance with 24 points and 11 rebounds, repeatedly scoring through contact in the paint. His supporting guard added 18 points and seven assists, including the go-ahead free throws in the final minute. Kobe’s lead guard finished with 22 points and six assists, while its center contributed 16 points and 10 rebounds in a losing effort.

Season impact

The win gives San-en NeoPhoenix an important road result in the B1 League standings and reinforces its ability to win close games away from home. For Kobe Storks, the loss is a frustrating one because the team led after three quarters and matched San-en for much of the night. The Storks will need to improve their late-game execution and defensive rebounding if they are to turn similar performances into wins.