The result was anticipated. Nevertheless, the game left the Akatsuki Five with grief and a sigh.
The Japan men’s national team posted a third straight loss in the first round of the FIBA World Cup with a 98-45 pounding to reigning tournament and Olympic champion United States in its final Group E contest on Thursday night.
In the complete defeat, forward Yudai Baba was the lone bright spot for Japan (0-3), finishing with 18 points and three steals in 24 minutes.