In a thrilling semifinal at the FIBA Asia Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, China overcame New Zealand 98-84 to storm into the final for the first time in a decade. The 16-time Asia Cup champions had missed the knockout stages in 2017 and 2022, making this comeback a testament to their resilience.
China opened strong as captain Zhao Rui orchestrated the offense with precision. An early assist set up Hu Jinqiu’s layup, and Zhao poured in eight consecutive points, pushing China to a 10-7 lead. Powered by a 13-0 run featuring key drives from Gao Shiyan, Liao Sanning and Lei Meng, they closed the first quarter up 28-19.
New Zealand responded in the second quarter with stout defense, holding China scoreless for the final four minutes. A 9-0 run cut the deficit to 42-40 by halftime, keeping the contest alive.
China reclaimed momentum in the second half, outscoring New Zealand 56-44 behind balanced scoring and strategic adjustments. The win not only snapped their recent quarterfinal woes—ended with a 79-71 victory over South Korea in the last eight—but also set up a highly anticipated final showdown.
With this victory, China has reignited its championship legacy and emerged as a contender again on the Asian basketball stage. Fans worldwide are now eyeing the final, where China will chase a 17th title and cement its status as Asia’s basketball powerhouse.
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China beat New Zealand, make FIBA Asia Cup final again after 10 years
cgtn.com
