China’s Hu Jinqiu (#21) takes a shot in opposition to Japan in a 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifying Asian Group B recreation in Okinawa, Japan, February 26, 2026. /VCG
China battled from behind in spirited style in Okinawa on Thursday, overturning a 14point halftime deficit to beat Japan 87-80 and report its first win in Asian Group B in 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifying.
Japan dominated early as Yuta Watanabe picked his spots and China’s protection repeatedly discovered itself in foul hassle, sending the house facet to the free throw line 14 occasions within the first quarter. The Japanese crew led 21-11 after a sloppy opening interval, earlier than momentarily extending the margin to as many as 15 factors.
The hosts took a 47-33 lead into the locker room regardless of transient sparks from Chinese guard Liao Sanning, who created alternatives off the dribble and in transition.
Everything that went incorrect for China within the first half appeared to go proper after the intermission. The guests sharpened their protection with aggressive switching and tighter perimeter strain, forcing turnovers and producing offensive rhythm. A 13-0 run flipped the script because the guests outscored Japan 25-9 within the third quarter and entered the ultimate interval holding a 58-56 edge.
The fourth quarter was scrappy. Zhu Junlong hit a pivotal nook three, whereas Zhao Rui attacked the rim earlier than later fouling out on an offensive cost. Tensions flared on the sideline after a number of technical and unsportsmanlike fouls had been known as in opposition to China.
Japan closed the hole on the line, however Hu Jinqiu’s consecutive buckets and key block, together with a clutch threepoint play from Zhao Jiwei, steadied the visiting squad and helped seal the victory.
Five Chinese gamers reached double figures. Hu led with 20 factors and 12 rebounds, whereas Liao added 16 factors and 5 assists, with Zhao Jiwei contributing 14 factors. He Xining tallied 12 factors and Zhao Rui completed with 10.
The win strikes China to 1-2 in Group B and provides the crew recent momentum, forward of Sunday’s highway recreation at Chinese Taipei.
Source: CGTN