Sichuan Yuanda Meile made history on Saturday by securing the inaugural FIBA Women’s Basketball League Asia title with a thrilling 73-69 victory over Japan’s Fujitsu Red Wave. The final, held in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, witnessed Sichuan claiming three consecutive victories in front of their passionate home fans.
After overcoming Surabaya Fever and Cathay Life in their first two matches, Sichuan faced the reigning champions Fujitsu Red Wave in the final. The home team started strong as Gao Song hit a crucial three-pointer, setting the tone for the game. Key players from the Chinese national team, Li Meng and Han Xu, collaborated effectively, helping Sichuan maintain a narrow lead.
Gao Song extended Sichuan’s advantage with another three-pointer, bringing their lead into double digits. The 32-year-old forward continued her impressive performance after halftime, adding three more of her 18 points. Han Xu also excelled, hitting a three-pointer in the third quarter that pushed the lead to 20 points for the hosts.
Despite a late surge from the Japanese team, spearheaded by Uchio Akina’s steal and lay-up, Han Xu's defensive prowess ensured Sichuan held firm. Han finished the game with a game-high 24 points, six rebounds, and two blocks, earning her the Most Valuable Player honors.
In the final moments, Gao Song recovered from a late rejection to score a reverse layup, sealing Sichuan’s four-point victory. This win marks Sichuan as the two-time reigning WCBA champions and the first-ever winners of the FIBA Women’s Basketball League Asia.
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Sichuan capture inaugural FIBA Women's Basketball League Asia title
cgtn.com
