Slovenia vs Japan Olympics Basketball

The Slovenia vs. Japan Olympics Basketball clash is one of the most exciting matchups in the group stage, as Luka Doncic’s red-hot Slovenia faces the determined host team, Japan, in a David vs. Goliath battle.

Slovenia: Led by a Record-Chasing Luka Dončić

Slovenia entered their first Olympic Games with a bang, crushing Argentina 118–100. Luka Dončić, the NBA superstar, was simply unstoppable:

• 48 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists

• Slovenia pulled down 59 rebounds, 27 more than Argentina

• Dončić came close to breaking the all-time Olympic scoring record (55 pts)

Supporting Doncic, Prepelic added 22 points, while Mike Tobey contributed a double-double with 11 points and 14 rebounds. Slovenia’s chemistry, rebounding, and elite scoring ability make them a serious medal contender.

Japan: Tough but Outgunned?

Japan showed signs of progress despite a 77–88 loss to Spain in their opener. NBA players Rui Hachimura (20 points) and Yuta Watanabe (19 points, 8 rebounds) carried most of the load, but the lack of depth was evident:
 

• Only two players scored in double digits

• Japan was out-rebounded 42–32

• Coach Tom Hovasse praised the team's improvement, but admitted they couldn't yet match elite squads
   

While Japan plays with heart and home support, their size disadvantage and limited bench may be exposed against Slovenia.

What to Expect in Slovenia vs Japan

This is a game where Dončić could dominate once again. Japan lacks the physical tools to slow him down, and if Slovenia controls the boards as they did against Argentina, it could get out of hand early.

However, expect Japan to push the pace and fight hard, especially with home crowd energy. They could keep things respectable if they shoot well from beyond the arc.

Match Prediction

Slovenia simply has too much talent and size. Doncic is in MVP form, and the team is playing with confidence. Expect a high-scoring game with Slovenia in control from start to finish.

Predicted Score: Slovenia 104 – 85 Japan
(✅ Slovenia Win | ✅ Over 178.5 Points)