They lost! A crushing defeat by 24 points, unable to reach the quarterfinals of the Asian Cup, Japan has become a laughingstock.

On August 13, Beijing time, the final match of the men's basketball Asian Cup quarterfinal qualifiers took place between the Japan and Lebanon national teams. Japan performed poorly, losing to their opponent 73-97, suffering a significant 24-point defeat and being eliminated. It's worth noting that Japan was ranked second in the strength rankings, yet they couldn't even make it to the top eight. This is truly lamentable, and it remains to be seen how Japan will perceive this loss for their national team.

Historically, the Japan men's basketball team has not been a strong team; they have only begun to improve in recent years. This Asian Cup was also missing many key players, which led to their defeat in the group stage against the traditional powerhouse Iran. In the quarterfinal qualifiers against Lebanon, Japan struggled offensively and had numerous defensive lapses, leaving them with very few opportunities. Lebanon quickly amassed a large score, resulting in a blowout. Ultimately, Japan suffered a 24-point defeat to Lebanon, which was even without their star player Al-Akawi. This outcome indicates that the Japan men's basketball team is indeed quite weak!

In fact, Japan's elimination is not surprising, as they have not achieved particularly outstanding results in the history of the Asian Cup. Moreover, key players like Yamura Yuki and Hachimura Rui were absent, raising questions about how they were ranked second in strength. Now eliminated by Lebanon, it will be interesting to see what excuses the Japan team will make. The performance of the Japan men's basketball team in this Asian Cup clearly shows that they underperformed, with their three-point shooting being unstable and their guards lacking the ability to break through, making it impossible for their fast-paced play to shine!

It must be said that the Japan men's basketball team has become a joke. Let's not talk about whether they are a second or third team; a loss is a loss. This match has made Japan face reality again, showing that they are not a strong team!

With Japan being eliminated, Lebanon advanced at the last minute, and the top eight of this tournament have been determined. The upcoming quarterfinals will feature intense battles, and we can expect some thrilling contests ahead. Let's look forward to the exciting matchups to come! Go for it!

Written by Sports Novel