I'm glad this episode turned it around a bit after the last two downtime episodes (though it was nice to see Mihoko and co). This is what Saki needs to about. Half an episode of mahjong swagu and half yuri/friendship flashbacks. This is the formula. It's a shame the end is so near already when it finally gets into gear. At this point, the main Achiga cast hasn't done that much for me. Out of all these new characters, I like Toki (dat ricchi pose) and Yuu the best (I'm still pulling for you Shizu but you need to swag out soon).
On a side note, even the probably throw away 4th player was interesting this time being voiced by Satomi Arai.