Despite 20 points and 10 rebounds from Rui Hachimura, Japan was thoroughly outmatched in a 97-77 loss to Germany in the opening matchup of Group B play at the P
loss to Germany in the opening matchup of Group B play at the Paris Games.and current Los Angeles Lakers forward was the focal point of the Japanese national team’s attack Saturday morning, though the Germans, the defending FIBA World Cup champions, overwhelmed their opponent with their size and strength down low behind the efforts of Moritz Wagner, who finished with 19 points ands rebounds.
Outmatched on the interior, Japan was forced to live outside the arc on offense. The early returns showed promise, as the team went 5-of-10 from downtown in the first quarter with Yuta Watanabe and Josh Hawkinson leading the way. Hachimura knocked down a few jumpers as well to keep Japan within striking distance.
Hachimura and Japan remained competitive throughout the first half, though the Germans held a 52-44 advantage at the break thanks to 20 points combined between Moritz and Franz Wagner. A strong second half from Germany was spearheaded by the Wagner brothers, who finished with a combined 37 points and continually dominated the painted area.
Turnovers were also an issue for Hachimura and company. Japan committed 13 turnovers, most of which on entry passes into the paint, while Germany had just five turnovers and scored 13 points off its opponents mistakes.
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