China are celebrating a first FIBA Women’s Asia Cup title since 2011 after beating Japan in front of a sold out Sydney crowd in what was another fantastic advert for the competition.
In a repeat of the previous two title games which ended up being taken by Japan, this time it was China who got it done with a second half comeback paving the way for an exciting 73-71 victory.
Xu Han was simply unstoppable for China. She had a double-double in every single game and walked away with the TISSOT MVP accolade after leading the competition in scoring, rebounding and blocked shots.
Her China teammate Li Meng joined her on the TISSOT All-Star Five team after her leadership proved pivotal to the gold medal success.
Meanwhile Japan’s Mai Yamamoto was rewarded for a breakout tournament with a spot, as was Alice Kunek who helped Australia take a third bronze medal in as many editions. The last berth was handed to New Zealand’s Penina Davidson who’s displays in the paint helped New Zealand attain their highest ever finish of fourth.
The event also served to confirm the Asia entrants for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments next year, with China, Japan Australia and New Zealand all punching their respective tickets to stay on the Road to Paris 2024.
Finally, there is still more to look forward to at the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup Division B which will take place next month in Bangkok, Thailand.
Credit: AIPS
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