Japan has decided to advance to the top four for the first time. Veteran Hiroaki Kasai mass-produced points in the second quarter (Q), which was tied. In the second half, he showed a strong defense and widened the lead, and although he was caught up by 2 points in the middle of the 4th quarter, he shook off the 3rd place powerhouse in the 2018 world championship.

Kasai, who scored the most 20 points for both teams, thanked his friends, saying, “Everyone attacked and created a scene where I could shoot. The score scored by the whole team.” Regarding his first advance to the Top 4, he said frankly, “I haven’t come this far in the past, so I still don’t feel it.” He confessed that he had been uncertain immediately after the victory, saying, “I talked to Teshima, but I don’t know how to be happy. But I haven’t achieved my goal (medal acquisition) yet, and I think I’m heading to the next.” rice field.

Toriumi Renshi marked 15 points, such as bringing it from steel to a shot at an important stage in the final stage. Reio Fujimoto also scored 14 points.

Japan, which has participated in five consecutive tournaments, advanced to the final tournament with 4 wins, 1 loss and 2nd place in the first league. In the semi-finals on the 3rd, they will face Britain, the gold medal of the world championship. Director Kyotani said, “It’s not an easy opponent, but there is momentum here. I want to play head-to-head.”[Mikihiro Okuoka]