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South Korea holds nerve to win Asian Games basketball gold over Japan

Japan, backed by a noisy crowd in Nagoya, roared back to within two points late in the game until South Korea finally saw out the win.

South Korea holds nerve to win Asian Games basketball gold over Japan

Nagoya – In a tense final, South Korea secured the women's basketball gold at the Asian Games, overcoming a significant challenge to defeat host Japan 75-70. The South Korean team had been in control from the outset, leading by 15-3 in the first quarter. However, Japan's spirited comeback saw them narrow the gap to just two points late in the game.

It was Kang Lee-seul who secured the victory with 21 points, including three crucial free throws in the closing moments. She acknowledged the pressure affecting her team's focus and emphasized the importance of staying calm and precise. South Korea's Lee Hae-ran led the scoring with 24 points. Japan's Haru Owaki contributed 23 points.

Every member of South Korea's squad also participated in the Women's World Cup earlier this month, where they were eliminated in the first round. Japan, aiming to win their first Asian Games title since 1998, was also sent home at the same stage of the World Cup. The bronze medal went to China, who beat Taiwan 77-64.

Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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