In a Tokyo gym packed with basketball fans, the home team Sunrockers are down by 12 points at halftime. Victory prospects don¡¯t look good: The visiting side¡¯s point guard is too quick, and its big men are dominating the boards. But in the second half, there¡¯s the unlikeliest of comebacks.

The Sunrocker¡¯s coach brings on a stocky forward, who starts to knock down shots, grab rebounds and play airtight defense. As the comeback gains momentum, he gets the chance at a three-point shot and buries it. The crowd roars. The Sunrockers win by 10, and the award for player of the game goes to the substitute, Jeff Gibbs.

¡°This is really rewarding,¡± says Gibbs as he collects the oversized check. ¡°Especially at my age.¡±