Australia boots Japan out of FIBA World Cup contention

Australia booted Japan out of contention in the 2023 FIBA World Cup after its 109-89 win on Tuesday at the Okinawa Arena.

The Australians banked on a strong second quarter and outscored Japan, 32-18, to end the first half at 57-35. Australia's lead ballooned to as much as 27 points, 83-56, at the 3:05 mark of the third period.

Josh Giddey led the Boomers with 26 points, 11 assists, and five rebounds, while Xavier Cooks had 24 points and 16 boards.

Joshua Hawkinson had 33 points, while Yuta Watanabe added 24 points for Japan.

With the win, Australia advanced to the second round of the tournament along with Germany. 

Japan, meanwhile, will join Finland in the classification round.

The top Asian team in the tournament will earn a slot for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Japan remains the only Asian team with a win in the tournament.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News