(LEAD) (Asiad) S. Korea beats Japan for men's basketball gold

In a thrilling men's basketball gold medal match at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games on Sunday, South Korea emerged victorious over Japan with a score of 67-57. Forward Lee Hyun-jung played a pivotal role, scoring 13 points from 27 attempts and delivering 18 rebounds, leading the team in both categories. This triumph marked the end of a 12-year gold medal drought for South Korea in men's basketball.

Earlier, South Korea had won the group stage match against Japan 100-83, showcasing their dominance throughout the tournament. In contrast to that high-scoring encounter, the final was a low-scoring affair, with both teams struggling to find the basket. South Korea built an 11-5 lead in the first quarter but struggled to maintain their momentum, falling short in the remaining minutes of the quarter.

Despite Japan taking a 16-12 lead after the first quarter, South Korea's shooters stepped up in the second quarter, outscoring their opponents 16-12. The teams traded blows in the second quarter, with each team landing crucial shots to keep the score tied at 28-28 heading into the second half. South Korea gained a significant advantage in the third quarter, pulling away by eight points thanks to Lee Hyun-jung's impressive three-point shooting.

By the final quarter, South Korea had established an 8-point lead, capitalizing on their improved field goal percentage in the paint. Japan managed to close the gap with a few offensive fouls and a late three-pointer from Atsuya Ogawa, but the South Koreans held their ground, finishing the game with a decisive 6-of-8 performance from beyond the arc in the final quarter.

Lee Hyun-jung's relentless scoring and clutch free throws in the closing moments ensured that South Korea clinched the gold medal. This victory also marked a personal milestone for Lee, who became the second Asian Games gold medalist in his family after his mother Seong Jeong-a helped South Korea win the women's basketball gold in Beijing in 1990.