Standing at the free-throw line, Chiba Jets big man Joe Werner appeared relaxed and confident during Sunday's game against the host Tokyo Cinq Reves. After all, it's a familiar place for him to be.
Werner has attempted 209 free throws in the season's first 36 games, including a season-high 16 on Sunday. He sank 13 of them as part of a 29-point, 19-rebound performance, and the Jets prevailed 89-80 over the Cinq Reves in their bj-league series finale at Ota Ward Municipal Gymnasium.
In addition to his strong effort at the line, Werner made 8 of 16 shots from the field and added two steals and two assists for Chiba (19-17). Frontcourt mate Marquin Chandler scored 23 points and hauled in eight rebounds. Three other Jets scored in double figures: Hiroki Sato (13 points) and Kensuke Tanaka and D'Andre Bell (11 apiece). Tanaka also collected four steals.