As a naturalized Japanese citizen, Nick Fazekas described it ¡°a crazy ride¡± to be facing his native country on the sport¡¯s premier stage.

That¡¯s what will happen on Thursday night, when Japan meets the United States in a Group E match at the FIBA World Cup.

The Akatsuki Five have already lost their chance to advance to the next round by losing their first two games here.