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Japan, one of three host countries for the 2023 FIBA World Cup, will take on Slovenia in its final pre-tournament game. Both teams are raring to compete in the World Cup, which will take place from August 25 to September 10.
The Japanese, who have a new coach, will be looking to improve on their 31st-place finish in China four years ago. Tom Hovasse has assembled a strong unit led by NBA players Rui Hachimura of the LA Lakers and Yuta Watanabe of the Phoenix Suns.
The Akatsuki Five played France two days ago and were battered by the European powerhouse. The Slovenians may not be as strong as the French on paper, but they’re going to be another tough opponent for the Japanese.
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Slovenia touched down in Japan a few days ago. They haven’t played an exhibition game since losing to Team USA on August 12. Captain Luka Doncic sat out that game but has been raring to get back into the action after an injury scare against Greece.
Losing Vlatko Cancar of the Denver Nuggets will hurt the Slovenians. But, Doncic and Goran Dragic are still around to lead the 2020 Tokyo Olympic bronze medalists.
Japan vs. Slovenia game details
Date: August 19, 2023
Time: 1:00 A.M. CT
Venue: Ariake Arena in Tokyo
It remains to be seen if Hachimura and Watanabe of Japan, and Doncic and Dragic of Slovenia will play. If they all play, they might see limited minutes.
Doncic was dinged up against Greece, so the Slovenians might be extra careful with him. He hasn’t played for over a week, so he might have to be on the floor just to get his rhythm and feel back.
The Japanese will field arguably their strongest unit in the country’s history, although Hachimura and Watanabe will likely be under minutes restrictions.
Where to watch
Japan vs. Slovenia will be available via FUBO and FIBA’s official streaming channel Courtside 1891. A few local stations in the host country are expected to air the game live for free.
Japan’s tune-up games for the 2023 FIBA World Cup
Before their lopsided loss to the French two days ago, Japan won twice against Taipei and split contests against South Korea and New Zealand. The Japanese also won a closely fought game 75-65 versus Angolo.
Slovenia’s tune-up games for the 2023 FIBA World Cup
The barometer of Slovenia’s success is undoubtedly Luka Doncic's level. When he’s around, they just look and play like a different team. If he’s fully fit, like the team said he is, they will be one of the top teams in the World Cup.
Coach Aleksander Sekulić may opt to give him just a few minutes, which wouldn’t be surprising. The bigger battles are ahead and he will want the Dallas Mavericks superstar to be healthy and ready.
