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Host nation Brazil closed out their 2025 IWBF Men’s U23 World Championship campaign on a high, edging past Japan, 48-49, in a nail-biting 7th–8th place playoff that had the home crowd on its feet until the final buzzer.
From the tip-off, the game delivered high drama and fast-paced action. Both teams traded baskets throughout the opening quarter, with Japan edging ahead 13–12 thanks to a buzzer-beating three-pointer from Shinsaku Iwata.
In the second quarter, Japan continued to apply pressure, tightening their defense and pushing Brazil into tough perimeter shots. The visitors extended their lead to as much as eight points. But with the energy of the home crowd behind them, Brazil clawed their way back. A late surge gave them a brief one-point lead with just seconds left in the half, only for Iwata to strike again from deep, draining his second buzzer-beater to send Japan into the break up 26–24.
The intensity didn’t let up after halftime. The third quarter saw more end-to-end exchanges, with neither side able to create separation. Japan held a slim 36–35 lead heading into the final ten minutes, setting up a thrilling conclusion.
The fourth quarter delivered the spectacle it promised. With every possession contested, Brazil found a late push, energised by the home fans at the Centro de Treinamento Paralímpico. In the final moments, it was Brazil who edged in front, and held on, to seal a dramatic 49–48 victory and secure 7th place.
The hero for Brazil was João Nascimento, who produced a commanding performance in front of his home crowd, finishing with a game-high 32 points and 12 rebounds.
This game carried added significance: with the win, Brazil secured an additional zonal slot for the Americas at the next IWBF U23 World Championship in 2029, a valuable achievement for the region and its development pathway.
Photo Credits: X-1/IWBF
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