In a thrilling overtime showdown at the Paris Olympics on Tuesday, France secured a dramatic 94-90 win over Japan, with star player Victor Wembanyama leading the charge. The game saw Wembanyama score six consecutive points in overtime, punctuated by an emphatic expletive as he turned to run back up the court.
“Let’s (expletive) go!” Wembanyama shouted, capturing the intensity and passion of the moment. Reflecting on his outburst, he said, “It’s basketball players’ things. I think in Mongolia, Australia or North Pole, they say ‘Let’s go,’ too.”
France’s victory was sealed by a game-tying four-point play from Matthew Strazel at the end of regulation. Strazel, who finished with 17 points, was instrumental in France’s unbeaten run in Group B play. Wembanyama contributed significantly with 18 points, eight of which came in the crucial overtime period.
The overtime period saw Wembanyama give France a comfortable 92-84 lead. However, Japan, led by a resilient performance from Yuki Kawamura, who scored 29 points and hit six 3-pointers, fought back to close the gap to 92-90. Despite their efforts, France managed to hold on to their lead, securing the win from the free-throw line.
“I don’t think we’ve experienced such a team,” Wembanyama said, acknowledging Japan’s tenacity. “We have to give props, respect to this. They really know how to use their strength. We can learn from them.”
Japan’s Rui Hachimura led his team with 24 points before being ejected for his second unsportsmanlike foul early in the fourth quarter. His ejection was a significant blow to Japan, which now faces the risk of elimination with an 0-2 record in group-stage play.
The game remained tightly contested throughout regulation. Hachimura’s back-to-back 3-pointers brought Japan within two points, making the score 72-70. However, his unsportsmanlike foul on Rudy Gobert, which led to his disqualification with 8:31 remaining, shifted the momentum.
Despite Hachimura’s absence, Japan fought valiantly. They regained the lead at 80-77 with a basket from Josh Hawkinson. Evan Fournier then tied the game for France with a quick 3-pointer. Kawamura, who was fouled, made two free throws, giving Japan an 84-80 lead. France missed three consecutive attempts to tie, but Strazel’s deep 3-pointer and subsequent free throw tied the game with 10.2 seconds left.
Japan had a final chance to win in regulation, but Kawamura’s potential game-winning 3-pointer missed, sending the game into overtime. In the extra period, Wembanyama’s scoring spree and France’s composure at the free-throw line ensured their victory.
As the Paris Olympics continue, both teams will look to build on this intense encounter. France aims to maintain their winning streak, while Japan will fight to stay in contention. This match will undoubtedly be remembered for its intensity, dramatic moments, and the emergence of new basketball heroes on the Olympic stage.
