The challenge that awaits the Japan men's national team is certainly big. But the players are filled with positive energy and are ready for it.
One day before Japan competes in its first 2019 FIBA World Cup game, the squad wrapped up its final practice at Shanghai Oriental Sports Center, the venue for the Group E games in the first round, on Saturday night.
The Akatsuki Five face Turkey, the silver medalist at the 2010 edition of the event, which was then called the FIBA World Championship, in their first game on Sunday. Tipoff is set for 5:30 p.m. JST.
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.