The FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2023 witnessed Japan and China securing their places in the semifinals, while the Philippines achieved a crucial victory to maintain their top-flight status.
In the upcoming semifinals on Saturday, Japan and China will enjoy a well-deserved break, while New Zealand, Korea, Australia, and the Philippines will compete in Friday’s Qualification For The Semi-Finals for the remaining two spots. Meanwhile, Lebanon and Chinese Taipei will clash in a battle to avoid relegation to Division B, taking place on Friday in the 7-8 Classification Game.
- Qualification For The Semi-Finals – Friday, June 30:
Australia vs Korea
New Zealand vs Philippines
- Semi-Finals – Saturday, July 1:
China vs Australia or Korea
Japan vs New Zealand or the Philippines
Japan’s scintillating performance propelled them into the semifinals of the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, overpowering the Opals and securing a commanding 91-66 victory against hosts Australia. A dominant second quarter, where they outscored their opponents 29-11, allowed Japan to take full control of the game. Mai Yamamoto continued to impress with 19 points and 5 assists, while Monica Okoye found her shooting rhythm, contributing 20 points. Japan displayed their long-range shooting prowess, sinking an impressive 17 three-pointers.
China’s path to the last four was an intense roller-coaster ride against Korea, eventually triumphing 87-81 in overtime. Despite trailing by as many as 11 points, China displayed immense resilience. Xu Han delivered a stellar performance with a remarkable 33 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 blocks, while Meng Li made a crucial impact with 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. Finishing atop their group, China secured their place in the semifinals. Korea, unfortunately to end with a loss, now look forward to the Qualification For The Semi-Finals of the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup.
The Philippines celebrated with relief and jubilation as they achieved their first mission of remaining in Division A of the FIBA Women’s Cup, defeating Chinese Taipei 92-81 in Group B. Jack Animam showcased her brilliance with an exceptional display, amassing 16 points and 15 rebounds on perfect shooting. Afril Bernardino made significant contributions with 18 points and 10 rebounds, and Vanessa De Jesus displayed her quality by leading the team with 25 points. Chinese Taipei’s Yu-Ting Lin put up a valiant effort, recording 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists, but it wasn’t enough to secure a victory.
New Zealand rebounded from their previous defeat against China, sealing a convincing 76-45 win against Lebanon in Group A. This victory secures their place in Friday’s Qualification For The Semi-Finals. Tahlia Tupea, a former Australian representative at FIBA Youth World Cups, shone brightly for the Tall Ferns, contributing an excellent 20 points. Penina Davidson dominated in the paint with 13 points and 13 rebounds, while Charlisse Leger-Walker had her standout performance of the competition with 19 points and 6 boards. Lebanon now faces Chinese Taipei in a must-win encounter to avoid relegation.
The FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2023 has witnessed impressive displays of basketball prowess. The remaining matches promise fierce competition and high-stakes battles as teams strive to secure their spots in the coveted semifinals.
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