Brex defeat Pilots as Japan claims third consecutive EASL crown

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Utsunomiya Brex won the East Asia Super League EASL Finals Macau 2026 championship with a 90-81 victory over Taoyuan Pauian Pilots on Sunday, March 22, at the Studio City Event Center in Macau. Makoto Hiejima led the Brex with an MVP-worthy performance, contributing points, rebounds, and key plays throughout the match.

The Brex controlled the second half, executing well on both ends to maintain their lead and withstand a late surge from the Pilots. This victory gives B.LEAGUE its third consecutive EASL title, following Chiba Jets in 2024 and Hiroshima Dragonflies in 2025.

Utsunomiya Brex lift the championship trophy following a 90-81 win over Taoyuan Pauian Pilots.

The championship also secures Utsunomiya Brex a spot in the FIBA Basketball Champions League Asia 2026, marking a major step for the team on the continental stage.

B.LEAGUE Chairman Shinji Shimada praised Utsunomiya Brex’s perseverance. “Congratulations to everyone at the Utsunomiya Brex on winning the East Asia Super League EASL Finals Macau 2026. We would like to express our heartfelt admiration for your perseverance throughout the challenging series of games, which saw you ultimately stand atop East Asia,” Shimada said.

He also acknowledged the strong performances of other B.LEAGUE clubs. “The Ryukyu Golden Kings and Alvark Tokyo also delivered outstanding performances in this tournament. The fact that three of the four teams that advanced to the EASL Finals Macau 2026 semi-finals were B.LEAGUE clubs is testament to the high level of competition within the league. We are extremely proud of the result of B.LEAGUE clubs in this tournament and will continue to support them in their global endeavors,” Shimada added.

Ryukyu Golden Kings take third as Alvark Tokyo finish fourth

In the third-place matchup, Ryukyu Golden Kings narrowly defeated Alvark Tokyo 77-76 in a tightly contested game. Ryukyu’s late-game execution and clutch scoring secured the podium finish, while Alvark struggled to convert opportunities in the final minutes.

The tournament featured standout individual performances, with Hiejima driving Utsunomiya Brex’s offensive and defensive execution. The Brex’s teamwork, composure in critical moments, and disciplined play were decisive in the final outcome.