Japan’s 123‑70 rout of Qatar underscores rising basketball prowess
Japan demolished Qatar 123‑70 in a FIBA World Cup qualifier in Tokyo, with Rui Hachimura leading the scoring and the team displaying unprecedented chemistry.
Aug 31, 2026
Person
Dai Oketani
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Dai Oketani across Basketball.
Japan Crushes Qatar in Asian Qualifiers with Hachimura’s 30‑Point Explosion
Japan delivered a dominant 123‑70 win over Qatar, highlighted by Rui Hachimura’s 30 points and a balanced offensive effort that underscores their momentum toward the 2027 Basketball World Cup.
Aug 31, 2026
Japan Crushes Saudi Arabia in Asian Qualifiers Opener
Japan opened its 2027 Basketball World Cup Asian qualifying campaign with a 106‑78 victory over Saudi Arabia in Jeddah, driven by a flawless shooting display from Rui Hachimura and solid contributions from Josh Hawkinson and Keisei Tominaga.
Aug 28, 2026
Rui Hachimura eyes 2028 Olympics after confirming return to Japan national team
Rui Hachimura reaffirms his ambition to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, detailing his return to the Japanese national squad under new coach Dai Oketani and the upcoming friendlies and qualifiers.
Aug 16, 2026
Rui Hachimura Returns to Japan’s National Team Ahead of 2027 World Cup Qualifiers
After a public split with the Japan Basketball Association, Rui Hachimura rejoins the national squad for the Asian qualifiers, joining a training camp that will test the team against South Korea, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
Aug 3, 2026
Rui Hachimura’s Return to Japan’s National Team Signals a New Era
After criticizing the Japan Basketball Association's management and former coach Tom Hovasse, Rui Hachimura announced his intention to rejoin Japan's national basketball team following the 2024 Paris Olympics, emphasizing the rise of overseas-based players and the importance of not wasting the current opportunity.
Aug 1, 2026
Nagasaki Velca captures first B‑League championship with 72‑64 victory over Ryukyu Golden Kings
Nagasaki Velca clinched its maiden Japanese basketball title, defeating the Ryukyu Golden Kings 72‑64 in the B‑League finals. Lee Hyun Jung’s 23 points and 38‑minute effort anchored the triumph.
May 26, 2026