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In their opening game of the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025 (Division A), Lebanon nearly pulled off an upset against Japan. Defeated 72–68 after a hard-fought battle, the Lebanese players left the court with their heads held high.

They made a major Asian basketball powerhouse doubt itself right until the final buzzer. On Sunday, at the Shenzhen Sports Center, the Lebanese team delivered a top-level performance against Japan, the reigning vice-champions, falling short by just four points (72–68) in a thrilling opening match of the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025.

Facing an experienced lineup, the Lebanese players showed courage, composure and ambition. They led the game early on, even going up by 10 points (26–16), carried by a sensational Rebecca Akl. The Lebanese point guard put in a massive performance: 27 points at 50% shooting, 5 rebounds and a string of clutch plays toward the end when everything was still up for grabs.

Japan, despite their usual dominance, struggled to dictate the pace. It took a spark from Minami Yabu (19 points, including 12 in the first half), a barrage of three-pointers (15 total) and above all, the composure of Kokoro Tanaka, who nailed two crucial free throws with 0.1 seconds left, to snatch the win for Japan.

The Lebanese players made life difficult for their opponents, earning the respect of the Japanese head coach. “We didn’t play to our usual level, not up to our standards. But sometimes that’s how it goes in sports. Lebanon really pushed us to our limits,” admitted Corey Gaines, clearly relieved by the outcome.

And rightly so — even in the dying moments, the Lebanese believed. Trailing by eight points with two minutes to go, they closed the gap thanks to a layup, a three-pointer and a free throw from Rebecca Akl. She even tried to force one last decisive possession by intentionally missing her second free throw with 3.2 seconds left. Amar Mansour grabbed the rebound and scored a floater to make it 70–68. But Tanaka, unshaken, sealed the deal.

Amar Mansour also put in a strong performance with 19 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals, while Jillian Archer recorded a double-double (10 points, 12 rebounds) in her debut for the Lebanese national team in an official FIBA competition.

A Promising Future

This narrow loss should not overshadow the Lebanese team’s overall performance. With boldness, intensity and unwavering unity, they proved they belong among Asia’s elite. They held their own against one of the continent’s top teams and came within inches of a stunning upset.

On Monday, another massive challenge awaits: Australia, at 11:30 AM (Beirut time). But after such a confidence-boosting performance, the Lebanese players can truly believe in their chances. The fire is lit, now it just needs to be fed.