Japan will face Brazil in the possibly last game of the Olympic Tournament without star forward Rui Hachimura. The Lakers’ forward felt discomfort in his left calf after the game against France.
The Japanese athlete underwent an MRI that confirmed the injury. Calf injury issues could limit a player a lot, and Hachimura decided to leave the Olympic Games per NBA/FIBA rules.
“It is necessary to begin treatment on the injury quickly. So in accordance with the rules, I cannot remain with the team,” Rui Hachimura said in a statement released by the JBA. “Along with the other members, I believe we have played extremely good games for Japanese basketball. I am filled with pride to have been a part of it.”
Rui Hachimura will cheer Japan NT from the sideline in the game against Brazil, as the Asians are looking for their first win in the Men’s Olympic Basketball tournament since 1972.
The Lakers forward posted 22.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game in two Paris Olympic Games contests.
