Japan, the second-ranked Asian team in the world, will head to Saudi Arabia to play in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025.
Japan clinched their spot in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 with a hard-fought 83-78 road victory over Guam in the Qualifiers Sunday.
The Akatsuki Japan took control early, building a lead midway through the first quarter and holding it for the rest of the game.
The Japanese led by as many as 19 points, a cushion that proved crucial as Guam mounted a late rally in the fourth quarter.
Yudai Nishida led Japan with 21 points, while Yoshii Hirotaka added 17 points, showcasing a balanced offensive attack.
Joshua Hawkinson was dominant inside, contributing 13 points and 16 rebounds. The win improves Japan’s record to 4-0 in Group C, guaranteeing their place in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 in Saudi Arabia, with one more qualifying window to play early next year.
Guam, now 1-3 in Group C, was carried by Earnest Ross Jr.’s 30-point effort but fell short despite their spirited fourth-quarter charge.
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[Editor's note: This article was generated by a member of the One Sports Digital team using AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]