August 2nd, the official Japanese basketball federation announced that Yuta Watanabe has suffered an injury to his left ankle and will be withdrawing from this year’s Olympics.
The federation stated that after the first match against the French national team, Watanabe felt discomfort in his left ankle. He subsequently underwent an MRI scan which diagnosed a strain of his left gastrocnemius muscle, leading to his early withdrawal from the national team.
Following his injury, Watanabe expressed regret, stating that he needs immediate treatment for his injury. Due to NBA/FIBA rules, he will no longer be able to continue with the team. He greatly appreciates all the supporters, fans worldwide, and Japanese fans.
I am proud of the fantastic games that I and my teammates have played for the Japanese national team. The Japanese national team will continue to fight for victory against Brazil. Please keep supporting Japan.
In the first two group stage matches, Watanabe averaged 22 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds against Germany, and 24 points and 3 rebounds against France.
Tonight at 5 PM, the Olympic men’s basketball group stage match between Japan and Brazil is taking place. Japan must win to have a chance to advance to the quarterfinals.
Japanese Basketball Federation Official: Yuta Watanabe Suffers from Left Ankle Injury, Withdraws from This Year’s Olympics. Author：Sports UEFA.Please indicate the source when reproduced：https://www.sportsuefa.com/basketball-headlines/japanese-basketball-federation-official-yuta-watanabe-suffers-from-left-ankle-injury-withdraws-from-this-years-olympics.html
