Hachimura signed a two-year, $28 million contract with the Clippers in July after spending the previous three-plus seasons with the Lakers. While players routinely compete internationally, there is always concern when a key rotation piece logs heavy minutes before the start of NBA-related activities. Hachimura’s performance offered a positive early signal in that regard.
In the game, Hachimura demonstrated efficiency beyond scoring. According to FIBA’s official box score, he connected on 8 of 10 two-point attempts, 3 of 4 from three-point range, and all four of his free throws. He also contributed four rebounds, two assists, three steals, and one blocked shot, posting an efficiency rating of 36. Notably, he committed zero turnovers and zero fouls. Japan outscored Saudi Arabia by 23 points during his minutes, underscoring his productive contribution on both ends of the floor.
The Clippers had highlighted Hachimura’s shooting ability when they signed him, with team president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank describing him as an elite three-point shooter and a skilled mid-range scorer who uses his size to create mismatches. Hachimura’s performance in this game aligned with that assessment.
Looking back at his 2025-26 season, Hachimura averaged 11.5 points and 3.3 rebounds for the Lakers, shooting 51.4% from the field and 44.3% from three-point range. A 29-point output on 14 shots in international competition doesn’t determine his NBA season’s trajectory, but it is a strong indicator that his shooting touch remains intact during the offseason.
There is additional context for Clippers fans to consider. Hachimura previously faced a health scare during the 2024 Paris Olympics when he experienced left calf discomfort following an overtime game against France. An MRI later revealed an injury to his left gastrocnemius muscle, and he exited the Japanese national team prior to its final group game. That history adds a layer of caution whenever he plays meaningful basketball outside the NBA, but no similar issues were reported after the Saudi Arabia game. He completed his workload without incident and delivered one of the most efficient scoring performances in the current FIBA qualifying window.
For Los Angeles, the immediate takeaway is clear: their new forward is contributing on a high level internationally, is shooting at a strong clip, and emerged from the game without a reported physical setback. While the NBA season remains the primary focus, this early performance provides favorable signs for how Hachimura could fit into the Clippers’ rotation and offensive system once play resumes.
In summary, Hachimura’s recent showing for Japan offered the Clippers a positive August development: a highly efficient scoring performance, strong shooting numbers, and no reported injuries, all pointing toward a promising start to his tenure in Los Angeles.
