Two games into the Basketball Champions League Asia-East, and the NS Matrix Deers find themselves backed into a corner.

Less than 48 hours after a double-overtime heartbreaker against Taiwanese powerhouse Taoyuan Pilots, the Deers endured another painful blow—this time falling 98-86 on home court to Mongolia’s Bishrelt Metal in their second Group A matchup. With a 0–2 record, Thursday’s showdown against Indonesian giants Pelita Jaya has become a must-win.

"Nobody likes to lose, but we played against a very good basketball team today. They were prepared, well-coached," head coach Felton Sealey said after the game. "We gave our best effort, but unfortunately it wasn't good enough. But overall, our effort was there, but very disappointing. Because we thought we had a chance to win this game today, and we came up short."

Fatigue Sets In, but the Fight Continues

Monday's double-overtime loss seemed to sap the Deers’ energy. The Metal pounced, stretching the lead to 75–55 late in the third quarter. But backed by a lively home crowd, the Deers launched a spirited comeback in the final period.

With 3:57 remaining, Murry’s aggressive drive to the rim cut the deficit to 75–83, reigniting hope. Moments later, Wong Yi Hou's three-point play brought the game to 92-86 with just 46.1 seconds left.

But like déjà vu from the Pilots game, costly turnover returned at the worst time. A crucial steal and emphatic two-handed dunk by Wesley, followed by a driving layup from Dulgunn Enkhtsogt, sealed the deal for the Metal. Wesley’s final bucket under the rim capped off a dominant night for the visitors.

Revenge Served Cold

In last year’s first qualifying round in Mongolia, the Deers had beaten Bishrelt Metal 98–84, earning a spot in the playoffs thanks to head-to-head advantage. But this time, the Mongolian squad came prepared—and with fresher legs. The result? A satisfying measure of revenge.

American Byron Wesley was the undisputed star of the game, finishing with a near triple-double: 34 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists. Scott added 24 points and 10 rebounds, while team captain Enkhbayasgalan Amarbayasgalan knocked down five of six from deep en route to 21 points.

On the Deers’ side, the offense was once again led by their imports. John Murry scored a team-high 29 points, center Joseph Obasa contributed a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Marquez Letcher-Ellis chipped in 12 points and 11 boards.

One Goal: The SEA Games Podium

After two straight losses, the Deers’ path to the next round looks steep. But for Coach Sealey, the bigger picture remains clear.

"It's real simple. We're playing for a bigger prize," he said. "We got together with the goal to be prepared, preparing ourselves for the Southeast Asian Games. We went into this understanding that it was going to be an uphill battle. We're the underdogs in every game. And saying all that, these guys are motivated."

Malaysia’s men’s basketball team hasn’t won a SEA Games medal in 18 years—a drought that they are determined to end.

"They know what's at stake. I don't have to motivate them. I wouldn't have selected them if they weren't motivated to win. But winning is a process. And I believe we're taking the right steps by having these games and discovering ourselves."

Sealey remains hopeful that the team will regroup and come back stronger.

"But overall, I'm pleased with the effort. And I just think that they're motivated enough to come back, bounce back and give their all in that next game."

Pelita Jaya: Best Team On Paper

Thursday’s matchup against Pelita Jaya may be their last chance to keep the dream alive. For the Deers, it's no longer just about qualifying—it’s about proving they belong.

"Overall, they're the best team on paper. That's on paper. They can only put five people on the floor. We're gonna go out and compete, do our best to play good basketball. The winning will take care of itself if we can play good basketball, both the offensive and defensive end." said coach Sealey.

"They're a well-coached basketball team. I think these two games have given us a chance to understand each other, get more familiar with each other. Our chemistry's a little off, but I think by the time this third game come around, the chemistry will be much better."