China looks the real deal after sinking Opals, Chinese Taipei eye Semi-Finals

AMMAN (Jordan) - China continued their seemingly unstoppable run towards the FIBA Women's Asia Cup podium after collecting a super victory against Australia to wrap up a place in the Semi-Finals.

While it was very much an even game in the first-half, China stepped on the gas after the interval and turned up the dial from downtown during the last quarter to ease their way to an impressive 82-64 triumph.

Forward Sijing Huang was outstanding and walked off the court with 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists, having knocked down a couple of huge triples in the last period to get her team onto the front foot. The towering Xu Han was also a real handful for the Aussie defense and she claimed a 16-point and 11-rebound double-double.

The defeat was harsh on Sami Whitcomb who shone for the Opals with 24 points, 7 boards and 5 assists. Australia now face neighbors New Zealand in the Qualification To The Semi-Finals.

In the last game of the day, there was double joy for Chinese Taipei. In taking a convincing 93-52 win against Philippines, they not only gave themselves a shot at the last four, but they also secured their Division A status. 

Philippines had an amazing display from Afril Bernardino who netted 24 points and collected 14 rebounds, but nobody else was able to step up in a big way. The one-two punch of Wen-Yu Lin and Hsui Cheng was essential for Chinese Taipei. Lin amassed 19 points in a stellar shooting display and Cheng also barely missed in adding 14 points.

Chinese Taipei will face Korea in the Qualification To The Semi-FInals, with Philippines needing to beat India to avoid falling into Division B.

FIBA