Germany proved far too strong for Japan in their opening FIBA Basketball World Cup Group E clash Friday, outgunning the tournament co-host 81-63 on the back of a 25-point, nine-rebound performance from Orlando Magic big man Moritz Wagner.
Japan’s Josh Hawkinson (L) soars to grab a rebound against Germany during the second quarter of their Group E game in the first round of the Basketball World Cup on Aug. 25, 2023, at Okinawa Arena in Okinawa, southern Japan. (Kyodo)
Toronto Raptors guard Dennis Schroder scored 14 and Indiana Pacers center Daniel Theis notched 13 for the 2022 EuroBasket bronze medalist, which led at every change at Okinawa Arena.
Yuta Watanabe did his best to keep 36th-ranked Japan in the contest, contributing 20 points, six rebounds and two blocks.
The Phoenix Suns swingman, who missed most of Japan’s warm-up games with an ankle injury, immediately made his presence felt for head coach Tom Hovasse’s team. He tallied eight of Japan’s 11 first-quarter points and energized the crowd with a pair of early blocked shots.
Yudai Baba added 15 for Japan, which had no other double-digit scorers.
No. 3 Australia earlier overpowered No. 24 Finland 98-72 in Friday’s other Group E contest in Okinawa.
Germany’s Dennis Schroder (C, R) dribbles as Japan’s Yuki Kawamura (C, L) defends during the first quarter of their Group E game in the first round of the Basketball World Cup on Aug. 25, 2023, at Okinawa Arena in Okinawa, southern Japan. (Kyodo)
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