Japan vs Slovenia Basketball Preview: Prediction, rosters and more for 2023 FIBA World Cup tune-up

Modified Aug 19, 2023 09:50 GMT

Yuta Watanabe of Japan and Luka Doncic of Slovenia

Japan and Slovenia are set to face off on Saturday, Aug/ 19, in their final tune-up game before the 2023 FIBA World Cup next week. Both teams are looking to end their schedule with a win. Japan is coming off a loss against France, while Slovenia was battered by the United States.

The Five Reds put up a great fight against France on Thursday in Tokyo. They were just down by five points after the first half, but Les Bleus pulled away in the third quarter to get a 88-70 win. Keisei Tominaga had a game-high 20 points for Japan.

Meanwhile, Slovenia was without Luka Doncic in their game against Team USA in Spain on Saturday. Gregor Glas was the only Slovenian to score in double digits, with 14 points, in their 92-62 loss.

Explore the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator & be the GM of your favorite NBA team.

Also Read: "Why she being so dramatic" - Hilarious Sage Steele memes erupt as analyst leaves ESPN to exercise first amendment rights 'more freely'

2023 FIBA World Cup tune-up game preview

Japan has had a pretty solid preparation for the World Cup. They're one of the tournament's host nations and will be eager to make an impression. They're also looking to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics by finishing with the best record among Asian teams.

Slovenia, meanwhile, was dealt an injury blow to Vlatko Cancar during their tune-up games. Luka Doncic will have to carry the team even more if they want to come out of their group and qualify for the second round of the World Cup.

Slovenia have only won two of their six tune-up games heading into Saturday.