France and Japan clutch up on Day 3 of FIBA 3×3 Olympic Qualifying Tournament
DEBRECEN (Hungary) – France (Men) and Japan (Women) win crucial games to book Quarter-Final spots on Day 3 of the third FIBA 3×3 Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 in Debrecen, Hungary.
THE TEAMS
France (Men)
After going 1-1 on day 1, the Olympic hosts France faced off against Canada in their final group game in what would be a must-win scenario for both teams.
France showed urgency early in the matchup with Raphael Wilson starting off hot from deep. The two-point barrage from France continued as they extended their advantage further, making it a 5-16 game. Wilson iced things on the free throw line, an 11-21 win for the Frenchmen. Wilson and Timothé Vergiat combined for a whopping 17 points in the result.
Japan (Women)
After suffering a tough loss to Spain in their second pool play game, Japan knew nothing short of a win would suffice in their final group game against Mongolia.
While a close affair for the most part, Japan’s Shizuka Takada was on fire. She put up 14 of her sides 16 points as Japan earned a 16 – 13 victory, booking their spot in the Quarter-Finals on Day 4.
THE PLAYERS
Anand Ariunbold (MGL)
It might not be his most dominant performance, but it might just have been his most impactful one. In a crucial game against Japan that found itself headed to Overtime, The Archer was the one with the ball again. A huge contested two handed Mongolia the win, and it was none other than Anand Ariunbold who sunk the shot.
His ability to close games will serve them well heading into the knockout phase tomorrow
Shizuka Takada (JPN)
A performance worthy of note, Shizuka Takada went off for Japan in their marquee matchup against Mongolia. She scored 14 out of her team’s 16 points in the winning effort as they now have their sights set on the Quarter-Final.
QUARTER-FINAL
MEN
Germany v France
Mongolia v Israel
Austria v Poland
Spain v Lithuania
WOMEN
Germany v japan
Hungary v Czechia
Canada v Italy
Spain v Poland
DAY 4
This is it. The final Olympic spots are on the line tomorrow as six teams will etch their name in history. You do not wanna miss it, tune in LIVE for the must-see action!
For more information about J9, visit j9.com.
