SHANGHAI, Aug. 31 (Xinhua) -- Japan are ready to shine at the FIBA World Cup and are confident about their competitiveness, according to team captain Yuta Watanabe.
Watanabe, a Memphis Grizzlies player, says he is fully aware of the demanding task ahead.
"We are very excited. We worked very hard for this World Cup, and we are ready to compete," said Watanabe.
Grouped with defending champions team USA, 2010 second-placers Turkey and the resurgent Czech Republic in Group E, the Japanese seem to be the underdogs, but Watanabe says they do have the talent and mindset to go the distance.
Japan will take on Turkey in their opener. Watanabe said that they have the ambition to show the world that they can compete at this high level and make life hard for their opponents.
"Reaching the second round is one of our goals, and the three are very good teams. Making the World Cup is not that easy, but we still need to prove we are the best ever," said Watanabe.
Debuting at the senior level back in 2013, the 24-year-old has come to shoulder great responsibility with the team.
"It's an honour to me. I just want to help the team, and make it better," said Watanabe when speaking about his role as captain.
Head coach Julio Lamas said the team have high expectations and are ready to play a demanding game against Turkey.
