China robbed Japan of a sixth straight FIBA Women’s Asia Cup title on Sunday by winning 73-71 in a close final at the Park Sports Center Sydney Olympics.
Center Han Xu led China with 26 points and 10 rebounds, while forward Maki Takada scored 17 points for Japan.
Han Xu of China heads for the basket during the FIBA Women’s Asian Cup 2023 Final match between China and Japan at Sydney Olympic Park Sports Center on July 2, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Getty/Essonne Info)
With Japan trailing 66-60 with just over two minutes remaining, goalkeeper Saki Hayashi tied the defending champions by converting a quick three-point play followed by a three-point shot points.
The 205cm Han responded with a throw-in layup with 1:05 remaining, giving China a 68-66 lead they never lost.
Saki Hayashi (Japan) is challenged by Wang Siyu (China) during the FIBA Women’s Asian Cup Final 2023 match between China and Japan at Sydney Olympic Park Sports Center on July 2, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Getty/Essonne Info)
The two teams had already secured their place for the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifications next February by qualifying for the semi-finals of the Asian Cup.
Host Australia beat New Zealand 81-59 in the third place match.
Féliciane is one of the talented editors of Essonneinfo. She has written for the site since its launch, and has become a well-known figure in the industry for her skillful reporting and unique take on stories. Féliciane’s main hobby is travelling. Her passion for travel has allowed her to write in-depth articles on cultures around the world.
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