Gunma sweeps Hokkaido in historic B.LEAGUE Manila Games

Gunma Crane Thunders completed a two-game sweep of Levanga Hokkaido after surviving a spirited overtime battle, 101-91, Thursday night in Game 2 of the inaugural B.LEAGUE Manila Games 2026 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The victory capped a successful two-day basketball showcase that drew 7,219 fans and marked a historic milestone for the Japan Professional Basketball League (B.LEAGUE)—its first-ever international home games outside Japan.

Gunma, powered by Filipino-American standout AJ Edu and former NBA player Stanley Johnson, also won the opening game, 98-81, on Wednesday.

Game 2 attracted 3,765 spectators, following the 3,454 fans who watched the series opener, as Filipino basketball enthusiasts turned out to see two of Japan’s B.LEAGUE clubs battle on Philippine soil.

The Manila Games formed part of B.LEAGUE’s continuing international expansion and underscored the growing basketball ties between Japan and the Philippines.

The event was staged with the cooperation of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), with the support of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines.

For Hokkaido, Filipino star Dwight Ramos welcomed the passionate reception from Manila fans despite the team's two-game setback.

“The energy here is the best in the world. I'm really happy to play in front of you guys. Thank you for supporting us, and I'll see you guys in the next window,” said Ramos.

Hokkaido import Gary Clark also praised the Filipino crowd and the warm reception extended to both teams.

“It's been great. The fanbase is amazing, the people are very welcoming, and it's been a really great experience,” Clark said.

Johnson, meanwhile, expressed appreciation for the support the Gunma players received throughout the two-game series.

“It was a pleasure to play in front of you guys back-to-back. You guys came out and supported us. They were great preseason games, and we are glad to get some wins this week,” Johnson said.

Edu, who has strong ties to the Philippines, delivered his own message to the Manila crowd.

“Thank you guys for the support over the last couple of days. I'll see you guys in the next window. Maraming salamat po,” said Edu.