FOSHAN (FIBA U16 Asia Championship) - Australia were pushed to the limit, but in the end they managed to outlast Korea, 69-60, to earn their spot at the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup.

Korea led early and often in this one, even taking a 38-33 lead into the final quarter before the Crocs outscored them, 36-22, to turn the tables and steal the win.

Wani Swaka Lo Buluk led Australia with 15 points, 3 rebounds and 3 blocks, including a couple of big triples in the fourth quarter during their searing rally. Luke Jackson also came up huge with 12 points, 17 rebounds and 3 steals, while Kobe Williamson tallied 9 points along with 17 boards. Shooter Jay Rantall struggled from the field, shooting just 2-of-11, but he still scored 10 points as Australia move on to the Semi-Finals.

It was a sorry loss for Korea, which drew very good performances from most of their star players. The big man combination of Cha MinSeok and Moon JeongHyeon played nearly without relief in this one, and they were visibly exhausted in the end. Moon had 24 points and 10 rebounds to lead the way for Korea, while Cha added 14 points and 8 rebounds. Swingman Kim JaeHyeon also stepped up with a dozen points.

Korea were outrebounded here, 58-35, but they countered with good defense, forcing Australia to shoot under 19% from the field in the first half. The Crocs found their bearings in the fourth quarter, though, and they took full control.

Australia are still in the running for a podium finish here in Foshan and will face New Zealand in the Semi-Finals, while Korea will play in tomorrow's classification game against Iran.

FIBA