On the early morning of July 31, in the Olympic men’s basketball group stage, France defeated Japan 94-90 after overtime to secure their second consecutive victory.
The match started with Japan taking an early 4-0 lead. However, France soon found their rhythm and the two teams traded leads. France kept scoring through strong inside attacks, while Japan responded with accurate three-point shots. A small 8-0 run by Japan saw them take the lead. France then adjusted their strategy and responded with a 9-2 run to lead 49-44 at halftime.
In the second half, Japan played well and regained the lead with an 8-2 run. Both sides were locked in a fierce tug-of-war, neck and neck. France made a key 7-0 run to regain control. In the final quarter, the situation changed dramatically as Kamura Yuki of Japan stepped up and scored six points in a row, helping his team retake the lead. Fournier hit a crucial three-pointer to tie the game. Kamura Yuki’s four successful free throws and Strasser’s 3+1 tied the score again. Kamura Yuki’s long-range three-point attempt for the win missed, sending the game into overtime.
In overtime, Wembanyama dominated, scoring eight points in a row. Although Japan went on a three-point shooting spree, it was too little, too late. Ultimately, France overcame Japan in overtime.
Throughout the game, Kamura Yuki performed exceptionally well. He played 33 minutes, shooting 9-for-26 (6-for-15 from three-point range) and 5-for-5 from the free-throw line, scoring a team-high 29 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists, with 1 steal, 2 turnovers, and 3 fouls. His plus-minus rating was -1. He could have been the hero for Japan’s national team in regular time, but his foul in the final seconds of the game spoiled the good position they were in. Of course, Hachimura also had an outstanding performance, getting ejected in the final quarter after committing two unsportsmanlike fouls. He finished with 24 points and 3 rebounds. Had he stayed on the court, Japan might have had a chance for an upset.