Statham Academy made a statement in their opening game of The Asian Tournament, defeating the New Taipei Kings 88-76 on August 19, 2026. The result gave the academy side an early boost in the competitive regional event, while the Kings were left to regroup after a strong start faded in the second half.

Match Overview

The game began as a tightly contested battle, with both teams trading baskets in the opening quarter. New Taipei Kings, known for their up-tempo offense and aggressive perimeter play, came out with energy and matched Statham Academy shot for shot. However, the Academy’s depth and defensive adjustments proved decisive as the game progressed.

Statham Academy seized control with a pivotal run late in the third quarter, turning a slim deficit into a double-digit lead. Their ability to convert defensive stops into transition points was the key difference, as they outran and outworked the Kings down the stretch. The final score of 88-76 reflected a game that was closer than the margin suggests, but one that the Academy controlled for the final twelve minutes.

Key Moments

• Second-Quarter Response: After New Taipei took an early five-point lead, Statham Academy answered with a 9-0 run to establish their first significant advantage.
• Third-Quarter Surge: A 15-2 burst midway through the third quarter broke the game open, capped by a transition dunk that brought the crowd to its feet.
• Clutch Free Throws: Statham Academy converted eight consecutive free throws in the final three minutes to keep the Kings at arm's length.

Tactical Battle

Statham Academy’s coaching staff made an adjustment at halftime that proved crucial. They began double-teaming New Taipei’s primary ball handler, forcing the Kings into uncomfortable half-court situations. The result was a series of rushed shots and turnovers that fueled Statham’s fast-break offense.

Defensively, the Academy packed the paint and dared the Kings to beat them from beyond the arc. While New Taipei hit a few three-pointers, they could not sustain the efficiency needed to erase the growing lead. On the other side of the floor, Statham Academy’s ball movement generated high-quality looks, with multiple players scoring in double figures.

Standout Performances

For Statham Academy, the backcourt duo led the way. The lead guard impressed with his playmaking, finishing with a game-high assist total while also contributing key steals in the third quarter. The frontcourt provided a physical presence on the boards, helping the Academy dominate second-chance points.

New Taipei Kings had their bright spots as well. Their veteran swingman kept the team within striking distance with a series of mid-range jumpers, finishing as their team's leading scorer. However, a lack of consistent support from the supporting cast proved costly against a deeper Statham rotation.

What It Means for the Tournament

For Statham Academy, the victory sets a positive tone in the group stage of The Asian Tournament. It also sends a message to the rest of the field that they can compete with experienced professional teams like the Kings. The Academy will look to carry this momentum into their next fixture.

The New Taipei Kings, meanwhile, will need to tighten their defense and improve their late-game execution. Losses in this round of the tournament can be recovered, but the Kings cannot afford another slip-up if they hope to advance from the group. This matchup offered an early glimpse of the competitive depth The Asian Tournament promises this season.