The expansion Shiga Lakestars took a major step forward last weekend, recording the first victory and the first winning streak in franchise history.

For Shiga coach Bob Pierce and his players, they now have something they can refer to as real building blocks — yes, specifically, their 84-78 and 70-64 wins on Saturday and Sunday, respectively, over the Rizing Fukuoka.

"I think a key thing about all our players is how hard they work to keep improving the skills, even now that the season is under way," said Lakestars coach Bob Pierce, a former Japan national team assistant coach.