Chiba Jets signed Yuta Wanatabe last summer after playing six seasons in the NBA. Gordie Herbert once agreed to become the head coach. But he suddenly asked for termination. Chiba decided to sign Trevor Gleeson. They started 14-2 despite Watanabe twisted his ankle in his second game in the season. Chiba had tough stretches, including three straight losses in mid-December. They played well late in the regular season, winning nine in a row and finishing second place in the East.
1. Took time to build chemistry with newcomers.
Chiba had a high expectation, especially after signing Watanabe. Unfortunately, Watanabe suffered an ankle injury and missed for eight weeks. Players had a tough time adapting to coach Gleeson's system despite starting 14-2. Another newcomer, D.J. Hogg played well from the beginning but twisted his left ankle and missed four weeks. Chiba couldn't play with their full roster for most of the season. Shuta Hara had a good season on both ends, and Naoki Tashiro defended well as a swingman. Chiba improved the defensive end, and the opponents' scoring decreased by 5.6 per game from last season. They especially limited the opponents to 69.1 points during their nine-game winning streak.
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