JAPAN defeated Jericho Cruz-led Guam, 77-56, to start its Fiba Asia Cup 2025 qualifiers at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo.
Yuki Kawamura had 15 points, six assists, and three steals for Japan in the home victory.
Makoto Heijima added 12 points while naturalized player Josh Harrellson dominated the paint with 11 points and 21 rebounds for the Akatsuki Five.
Coming off a championship with San Miguel, Cruz had 12 points and four rebounds but struggled from the field, going 5-of-16 from the field in 30:53 minutes.
Cruz continues his stint with Guam with a match against Mongolia on Sunday in another road game.
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