Red-hot Japan sets 3-point records in win over Mali to open FIBA Women’s World Cup

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% from the 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.