Two former NBL powerhouse teams squared off on Saturday in one of the early marquee matchups of the B. League's inaugural season, and coach Tom Wisman's Tochigi Brex made a statement.

The hosts delivered an impressive effort against their East Division foe, handing the Tokyo Alvark a 96-76 setback at Brex Arena Utsunomiya.

The Alvark (7-2) trailed 29-15 after the opening quarter and 47-34 at halftime.