FIBA 3x3 Yichang Stop 2023: Chinese team dominates against Malaysia, Romania

Posted : 07 August 2023

Amidst their reigning dominance this season, the reigning queens had the enthusiastic support of the Yichang crowd behind them. The backbone of the Chinese team, Lili Wang and ZhiTing Zhang, were joined by sharpshooter Kun Huang and the dynamic spark plug Yujie Chen.

Day 1 was a resounding statement as they cruised past Malaysia and Romania. Wang's collaboration with Zhang in the post and Huang on the perimeter rendered them nearly impossible to defend, showcasing their ability to score at all levels.

The clash against Poland highlighted Lili Wang's dangerous prowess. Not only did she contribute 8 points against a determined Polish defense, but her crucial 8 rebounds made the pivotal difference as China advanced to the semi-finals.

Challenges escalated for the home team, facing the Netherlands, equally dominant in the event. The contest evolved into a fierce battle, with Noortje Driessen and Wang trading powerful performances. Loyce Bettonvil's game-tying shot was met by Wang's decisive dagger. In the final seconds, Driessen's shot, which could have equalized the score, narrowly missed, propelling China to the finals.

Australia faced an uphill battle without Lauren Mansfield and the luxury of substitutions. Emma Clarke showcased her defensive intuition and remarkable shooting skills. Their opener against Germany was a thrilling showdown, culminating in a clutch finish by Anneli Maley to secure a narrow victory.

Mongolia posed another challenge as Indra Ulziibat's impressive 10 points went in vain. Marena Whittle and Maley combined for 16 crucial points, securing the win for Australia.

While Whittle shone offensively, Anneli Maley took the spotlight throughout the tournament. Her remarkable 12 rebounds and 7 points against Wuhan proved pivotal.

The Maley-Whittle duo displayed their prowess against Sc. Yuanda, propelling them to the finals with impressive performances.

The final showdown between China and Australia held poetic significance, as two teams intertwined in 3x3 history met again. China had previously triumphed in the Women’s Series this season, while Australia narrowly defeated a hobbled China in the FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2023. This time, Australia faced the brunt of the outcome.

The game unfolded in two halves. Australia dominated early on, with Maley and Whittle contributing significantly. By halftime, Australia led by 5 points.

Enter Lili Wang. She swiftly scored 5 crucial points, narrowing the gap. With a single point separating the teams and less than a minute remaining, Zhang, usually streaky in scoring, made both her free throws count. In the waning 13 seconds, Whittle's determined effort earned a bucket. However, it was the composed Wang who had the final say, sinking a floater in the last moments to secure China's victory before a roaring Yichang crowd.

The tournament's standout, Lili Wang, remained exceptional throughout, putting up 33 points and orchestrating every facet of the game. Her timely baskets shifted momentum in China's favor, particularly in the finals.

Final Standings:

1. China
2. Australia
3. Netherlands
4. Sc. Yuanda (CHN)
5. Germany
6. Poland
7. Romania
8. Wuhan SanFran (CHN)
9. Mongolia
10. Thailand
11. Malaysia
12. Hungary

The FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series proceeds to Poland for the Katowice stop 2023 on August 14-15.

FIBA 3x3 Yichang Stop 2023: Chinese team dominates against Malaysia, Romania

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics