The Toronto Raptors used a 54-35 rebounding edge to help them come back against the Houston Rockets to steal a victory in the first of their two Japan games.
Both teams came out hot in the first half, particularly James Harden for the Rockets and Pascal Siakam for the Raptors. Harden started the contest shooting 6-for-6 from the field until eventually missing a step-back three. The Beard finished the first quarter with 21 points and played some excellent post defense throughout.
Houston demonstrated excellent ball movement in the second quarter, frequently swinging the ball around the perimeter to find the best possible shot.