The Oita HeatDevils assembled one of the league's top rosters, a smart collection of veterans, and produced nine victories over their first 14 games, fewer wins than only one club in the 10-team Western Conference — the perennial powerhouse Ryukyu Golden Kings. More of the same appears impossible.
Oita's financial woes will likely signal the team's decline as a Final Four-contending team and league officials held talks in recent days, attempting to cobble together enough resources to remain afloat.
A week ago, it was reported that the team did not have the money to meet its financial obligations — ¥7 million — for November payroll — 19 individuals (players and staff).