FRA/JPN – France survive Japan's late rally

RODEZ (FIBA U17 The World Championship for women) – France almost saw an 18-point lead go to waste but in the end had just about enough to edge out Japan 70-67, much to the relief of the local fans in Rodez.

The hosts led 64-46 with 6:38 left to play but Japan closed the game with a 21-6 run and might have had a memorable victory to celebrate had time not run out on them.

The result saw the French improve to 2-2 and move into fourth place, just behind the Japanese, in Group A’s standings. A fourth-place finish would see them advance to the last eight.

Arnaud Guppillotte’s charges led 15-13 at the end of the first quarter and they pulled away in the second period for a 36-26 advantage at halftime.

They created more distances between themselves and their opponents thanks to a 7-0 run in the third period which came courtesy of guard Monny Niamke's hot hand.

Japan’s lack of height resulted in them getting dominated on the boards and then having to foul time and time again.

Down 58-42 to start the final quarter, the Japanese suddenly clicked and used of their trademark quickness and energy to cut away at the deficit at an impressive rate.

They were within three, 70-67, when Moeko Nagaoka hit a three-pointer with 33 seconds left to play, but France got the offensive rebound off a miss by Niamke and ran out the clock.

Quotes

Arnaud Guppilotte (France head coach): This time we played well for 36 minutes. Against Japan, you have to be careful. You cannot let them play if you don’t want to be worried. A game is never finished until the final buzzer. 

Hayashi Shinichiro (Japanese head coach): This game was difficult because there were so many people scoring. We tried to do our best but it did not work all the time.

FIBA/LOC