Red-hot Japan sets 3-point records in win over Mali to open FIBA Women’s World Cup
Akatsuki Japan shot 57.1% from the 3-point line and set a World Cup record by making 20 from deep.
Japan's Norika Konno dribbles against Mali during a Group A match at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in Berlin on Friday. | AFP-JIJI
Sep 5, 2026
Berlin – The FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup got off to a blistering start in Berlin on Friday, as Japan’s efficient three-point shooting and a standout performance from Saki Hayashi proved to be too much for a spirited, physical Mali team in the tournament’s opening game.
Akatsuki Japan shot 57.1% fromthe 3-point line on the way to its 102-97 win and set a World Cup record by making 20 from deep.
Hayashi’s game-high 27 points came from nine 3-pointers — which also set a tournament record.
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