For Tokyo Apache coach Bob Hill, the decision to move point guard Byron Eaton to a reserve role may turn out to be the smartest move he'll make this season.
Since Eaton, a hard-nosed floor leader, was named a backup before the Jan. 27 game against the Rizing Fukuoka, guards Jumpei Nakama, Cohey Aoki and Kensuke Tanaka have formed a steady three-guard starting lineup and given the team a strong presence in a speedy lineup.
The Apache (18-10 overall) are 6-1 in those last seven games, including a series sweep over the Western Conference-leading Osaka Evessa on Tuesday and Wednesday at Yoyogi National Gym No. 2.