Heated Discussion on Japan’s Narrow Loss to France: Japan Earns Praise Despite Defeat, Rui Hachimura Impresses Greatly, Similar to China vs Spain in 2008

On the morning of July 31, in the Olympic men’s basketball group stage, France defeated Japan 94-90 after overtime to secure their second consecutive win. Japan’s performance in this game was quite impressive. Although they ultimately lost, they received widespread recognition. Here is a summary of media reactions:

Basketball commentator Chen Zhenghao wrote about Team Japan: We have to admit that Japan’s men’s basketball team performed exceptionally well in this game, playing to their strengths. Japanese basketball has developed its own style. A team with distinctive characteristics can win games when their opponents fail to effectively contain them and also perform poorly themselves. However, it would be a narrow view to claim that Japanese basketball has caught up with European levels based on just one game. That said, you must acknowledge that Japanese basketball is on the right track, and they will continue to improve and close the gap with the world’s top teams.

European basketball and NBA draft expert Wang Jian wrote: “Japan may have lost, but they earned respect. No one expected them to push the hosts to the brink. Rui Hachimura deserves a two-way contract.” Media figure Maisu Feng wrote about the game: While they didn’t win, Japan forcing France into overtime and pushing the hosts to such a difficult position was worth it. The level of play, spirit, and attitude shown by Japan were like something out of a manga—truly inspiring. This kind of determined shooting—can any current Chinese player do it on the FIBA stage? Honestly, I don’t think our players can’t shoot; they’re just afraid to take responsibility. Fear does not earn respect, whether from opponents or home fans.

Broadcaster Su Qun wrote: “Putting aside whether the 3+1 call was correct, France only remembered to use the height of Victor Wembanyama and Rudy Gobert in overtime. Wembanyama scored eight straight points and blocked shots, while Nicolas Batum took on the task of defending Rui Hachimura, which was decisive. Hachimura’s foul and ejection add more to the discussion… This game feels similar to China versus Spain in 2008. The historical significance of the result might only become clear years later.” Media figure Zhao Tanchang wrote: “Rui Hachimura, who dominated Finland in the World Cup, nearly did the same to France today. If not for his late-game error, it could have been the greatest game of his career. 29 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, and just 2 turnovers. Time and time again, he hit incredible three-pointers. At 5’8″, he had the confidence of a 7-footer. In the end, Batum nodded and embraced him in respect. He’s like a modern version of Takashi ‘Tensai’ Akagi, with the shooting skills of Mitsui Takenori.”

Journalist Xue Sijia wrote about Chinese men’s basketball: Watching half of the Japan vs France game, the most serious problem facing Chinese men’s basketball is their lackluster offense. Defense sometimes relies on adrenaline, which may allow them to fight back, but if the offense isn’t working, adrenaline won’t help… Why does it feel like we’re talking about the national football team? Also, shots taken by players like Rui Hachimura and Yuki Togashi would never happen with young Chinese players. They’d be subbed out if they missed. Unless you’re a foreign player or a star with unlimited shooting rights, you wouldn’t dare take those shots. Over time, to ensure consistent playing time, young players stop taking risks, and their offensive creativity gets stifled. Media figure Xu Jingyu wrote: “Japan lost, ultimately falling short in overtime, but I feel that their strength reached an all-time high. It’s reminiscent of when the Chinese team played Spain to overtime years ago. Of course, this French team is weaker than the silver medal-winning Spanish team from back then, but there’s no doubt that the Japanese team has reached a historic peak. Rui Hachimura showed tremendous heart and energy despite his small stature. Envy! Japanese men’s basketball is experiencing its golden era.”

Media figure @biepaogangbeizhu wrote about the game: “Overtime, good job. This game was worth it for Japan. To push France to this extent, their strategy and performance were perfect. That’s definitely commendable.” Basketball commentator Shen Zhiyu wrote about Japanese men’s basketball: “Japan’s men’s basketball team played incredibly well. Rui Hachimura was amazing, but the foul on the last three-pointer was inexplicable. If they hadn’t fouled, the game would have ended. I’ve seen the exact same mistake twice in two days, so sometimes it’s just instinct. However, Japan’s high level of competitive play is both admirable and chilling.”