Luka Doncic makes amazing behind-the-back assist, leads Slovenia past Japan / News - Basketnews.com

Luka Doncic had a near triple-double of 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Slovenia finished their preparations on a high note by defeating Japan.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Luka Doncic-led Slovenia finished its preparation cycle for FIBA World Cup 2023 with a crushing 103-68 victory over Japan in Tokyo.

Dallas Mavericks superstar was on a pace to post a triple-double but came three assists and three rebounds short.

Doncic registered 23 points (3/6 2PT, 3/8 3PT, 8/10 FT), 7 boards, and 7 assists in almost 28 minutes of play.

His highlight of the game came in the third quarter when Luka penetrated the rim and found a teammate in the corner with a behind-the-back cross-court dish, which was immediately converted into three points.

In total, Slovenia played seven friendly games and won three of them, including victories against China, Montenegro, and the aforementioned Japan.

The most painful defeat came against Greece when the Slovenian national team lost one of its leaders -- NBA champion Vlatko Cancar -- to an ACL tear.

Slovenia's FIBA World Cup preparation

Date Opponent Result July 25th China W, 75-73 August 2nd Greece L, 91-98 August 4th Greece L, 77-88 August 8th Montenegro W, 104-100 August 11th Spain L, 79-99 August 12th Team USA L, 62-92 August 19th Japan W, 103-68

During the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup, Slovenia is placed in Group F, and their games will take place in Okinawa, Japan. They are set to compete against Cape Verde, Georgia, and Venezuela in the group stage.

Should Slovenia progress beyond the first phase, their next challenge would involve facing the top two teams from Group E. The potential opponents include Germany, Finland, Australia, and Japan.

Slovenia: Luka Doncic 23 (7 REB, 7 AST), Jaka Blazic 18, Zoran Dragic 12, Mike Tobey 11 (10 REB).

Japan: Yudai Baba 13, Josh Hawkinson 12 (12 REB), Keisei Tominaga 10.

Game highlights:

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