The Mongolian national men’s basketball team concluded a two-game friendly series in Japan with a 75-57 loss, after winning the first game 67-65. The matches, part of the “International Nippon Life Cup” in Saga City, served as preparation for both teams ahead of upcoming tournaments. Mongolia initially held a slight lead, but Japan rallied in the fourth quarter, outscoring Mongolia 27-3 to secure the win. Despite a strong performance from Sh. Enhin-Odsuren in the previous game, Japan focused their defense on him, creating opportunities for other Mongolian players. Japan’s John Harper Junior led his team with 11 points, 6 assists, and 7 rebounds. The Japanese team is preparing for the Asian Games and will face South Korea later this month, and also has a World Cup qualifying match against Qatar scheduled for August 31st.