Controversial Foul Call Propels France to Overtime Victory Against Japan in a High-Stakes Olympic Basketball Game. In a dramatic turn of events, France’s national team guard, Matthew Strazel, saved the hosts of the Olympic Games with a stunning 3+1 play that forced overtime, ultimately leading to France’s victory. The crucial foul call on Japan’s Yuki Kawamura has sparked significant debate, prompting reactions from Japan’s national team players and head coach.
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With just 10 seconds left, Japan was on the verge of their most significant victory in the Olympic Games or FIBA World Cup history, holding a confident four-point lead. However, in a twist of fate, Strazel had other plans. He pulled up for an off-balance three-pointer, drew a foul from Kawamura, and completed a 3+1 play, turning the game on its head and sending it into overtime.
The foul call has been a hot topic on social media, with many questioning its legitimacy. BasketNews sought the perspectives of Japan’s national team representatives on the controversial play.
“I think [there was] no foul,” Kawamura told BasketNews. Reflecting on his performance, which included 29 points, six rebounds, and six assists, he added, “We lost the game… I have to get better.”
Japan’s star player, Yuta Watanabe, also shared his thoughts with BasketNews: “We tried not to foul. If they made a three, we were still up by one. The last thing we could do was foul. Kawamura did a great job, and I won’t blame him or anybody. They made a great play. There is a reason why they won silver in the Tokyo Olympics and are one of the greatest basketball teams in the world.” This display of sportsmanship and respect for the opponent is truly admirable
Head coach Tom Hovasse added, “It didn’t look like a foul, but his back was to me, so I didn’t see if there was contact. It felt like our point guard tried to stay away from him. But it is what it is. The call is made, the free throw is made, and we went to overtime.”
Hovasse elaborated on the defensive strategy during the final play: “That wasn’t their first option. It was a wild play. We stopped what they wanted to do; they kicked the ball and moved it around. Our point guard had a good closeout and maybe just got tight. But Strazel made a great shot.”
Josh Hawkinson, another key player for Japan, refrained from judging the play, stating, “I didn’t get a good view.”
France ultimately secured a dramatic 94-90 victory in overtime, led by Victor Wembanyama’s 8 points in the extra period.
The game will be remembered for its thrilling conclusion and the controversial foul call that played a pivotal role in the outcome.
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FAQs
What was the controversial foul call in the France vs. Japan game?
The controversial foul call occurred when France’s guard Matthew Strazel drew a foul from Japan’s Yuki Kawamura while attempting a three-pointer. This play resulted in a 3+1, erasing Japan’s four-point lead and forcing overtime.
How did Japan's players and coach react to the foul call?
Japan’s players and coach expressed mixed feelings about the foul call. Kawamura believed it was not a foul, while Yuta Watanabe and head coach Tom Hovasse acknowledged Strazel’s great play but questioned the call’s legitimacy.
Who led France to victory in overtime?
Victor Wembanyama led France to victory in overtime, scoring 8 points in the extra period to secure a 94-90 win against Japan.
