Co-favourites Australia have progressed through the 2019 FIBA World Cup in Asia, ending co-hosts Japan’s tournament. The Olympic bronze medalist around veteran Patty Mills clearly beat Japan in front of 7,374 spectators on Tuesday (29.08.2023) in Okinawa with 109:89 (57:35) and thus finished Group E as second behind Germany.
The Australians were the best thrower NBA-Young star Josh Giddey with 28 points. The Japanese defended themselves bravely two days after the surprising win against Finland, but were physically unable to keep up despite loud support from the enthusiastic fans.
Japan already eliminated
This puts an end to all hopes of a coup by the hosts at the World Cup after just five days. Japan still competes in the games for places 17 to 32 on Thursday and Saturday.
Germany and Australia play in the intermediate round for tickets to the finals in Manila. The opponents will most likely be former European champions Slovenia with star player Luka Doncic and Georgia. A final decision in the other group will not be made until Wednesday.