BOCHUM, GERMANY — Team USA closed out its group-stage schedule with a disciplined 11–7 win over Japan on Friday evening in Bochum. Fueled by rebounding and defensive execution, the American men’s 3×3 wheelchair basketball team improved to 2–0 and secured a place in the quarterfinals.

Ryan Fitzpatrick led all scorers with 7 points, hitting 7 of 13 one-point attempts and grabbing a game-high 9 rebounds—five of them on the offensive glass. He also recorded the game’s only blocked shot. Jack Pierre and Joe Rafter each added 2 points. Martrell Stevens did not score but led the team with 5 key assists and pulled down 5 rebounds.

The United States shot 43% from inside the arc (10-for-23) and missed all 10 of its two-point attempts. The team’s only free throw attempt came from Rafter, who made it. Despite the offensive inconsistency, the Americans committed just two turnovers and outrebounded Japan 18–16, including a 9–3 edge on the offensive glass.

The win capped off a two-game day for the Americans, who earlier edged Brazil 12–10 in overtime. Despite a quick turnaround, the U.S. showed few signs of fatigue, relying on smart rotations and disciplined execution to wear down Japan.

Japan was led by Masato Watanabe with 4 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 assist. Takuma Taniguchi added 3 points, 1 assist, and 1 drive. Mitsuki Chino went 0-for-2 from the floor, and Kento Haruta was held scoreless but contributed 2 defensive rebounds.

“I think fundamentally we talked about what we want to do, what we want to get to with every team here,” Stevens said. “But defensively, we did have to change a little bit of our strategies just because, you know, we thought Japan was a more fundamental and quicker team on their wheels and their turns and stuff. So we wanted to actually work together and get to the shots we wanted.”

The pace of play remained fast, with no breaks and a 12-second shot clock compressing every possession. “It’s hard to control it really because it’s a 12-second shot clock, 10-minute game,” Stevens said. “I really don’t know how you can control it besides slowing down, because that last half of the shot clock is actually very long. In a regular game, like five-on-five, six seconds is panic time. But in 3×3, it’s half the shot clock. So you need to take your time, especially if they’re going to jump and be aggressive.”

The score stayed close early, with three ties in the opening minutes. Fitzpatrick, Pierre, and Rafter all contributed timely baskets as the Americans gradually built their advantage. Pierre’s second field goal—assisted by Stevens—was one of several steady plays that kept Japan from closing the gap.

Communication, Stevens emphasized, was a critical factor. “It’s loud. You got the lights. You got the music playing. So you have to be super loud. You know, the teams that don’t do as well usually aren’t talking as loud. So we got to make sure we keep that communication up even through all the distractions and stuff.”

With the win, Team USA improved to 2–0 in Pool A. Japan fell to 1–1, and Brazil to 0–2. Quarterfinal matchups are expected to be announced following the conclusion of group play.

Stevens reflected on the opportunity: “It’s a dream come true. I’ve always wanted to wear Team USA. Getting to this stage and being in Germany—it’s surreal. I’m just really grateful to be here.”