China Secures FIBA World Cup Spot, Brazil Stages Dramatic Comeback

WUHAN, March 15 – China clinched a berth in the FIBA Women’s World Cup with an 84-74 win against the Czech Republic, while Brazil mounted a remarkable rally to defeat Mali 76-73 in the ongoing qualifiers.

China Advances, Czech Republic Falls

China broke a 12-12 tie early in the game with a 9-0 run that spanned the first and second quarters. Zhang Manman hit China’s first 3-pointer with 7:09 remaining in the second period, helping the team establish a double-digit lead at 26-16. The advantage grew to 14 points before the Czech Republic began to close the gap.

Chen Yujie made a buzzer-beating floater as China held a 59-53 lead entering the final period.

In the fourth quarter, China regained a double-digit lead through layups by Han Xu and Luo Xinyu, assisted by Yang Shuyu and Zhang respectively. The Czech Republic fought back, narrowing the gap to 70-68, but veteran guard Wang Siyu scored six consecutive points in the final minute to secure the victory.

“We’re not just satisfied with the qualification. We seek to move further, we want to be a better team, so this game is too a decent test for us.”

Gong Luming, China coach

Wang Siyu led China with 14 points, while Han Xu contributed 12 and Yang Shuyu and Luo Xinyu each added 11.

China had already secured its World Cup qualification prior to this game, following Brazil’s win over Mali.

Brazil Completes Stunning Comeback

Trailing 20-15 after the first quarter, Mali took control in the second period, scoring nine unanswered points to turn the game around. Mali maintained a 37-35 lead at halftime, showcasing their athleticism with frequent attacks to the basket.

Mali extended its lead to 11 points midway through the third quarter with consecutive 3-pointers, building a 62-48 advantage heading into the final frame.

Brazil struggled from beyond the arc in the first three quarters, missing their first 10 attempts. Bella Nascimento broke the drought with 8:46 remaining, followed by another 3-pointer two minutes later. Caca Martins’ shot from 3-point range brought Brazil within 62-61 with 5:58 to play. The contest remained close until the final minute, with Brazil ultimately prevailing after Djeneba N’Diaye’s potential game-tying 3-pointer missed.

Five Brazil players scored in double figures. Kamilla Cardoso and Damiris Dantas both recorded double-doubles, with Cardoso scoring 17 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, while Dantas posted 16 points and 12 rebounds.

“It was a particularly intentional effort by our entire team. We were able to match the physicality of Mali, we were able to change our defense, and it mattered which player was in the game, we kept the high level of intensity.”

Pokey Chatman, Brazil coach

Cardoso added, Anytime you have five people in double figures, it’s really going to be difficult to beat.

Other Results and Upcoming Schedule

In a game between previously unbeaten and winless teams, Belgium defeated South Sudan 102-64.

The final round of qualifiers will take place on Tuesday, featuring matchups between China and Brazil, Belgium and the Czech Republic, and South Sudan and Mali.

The FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifiers are being held across four competition zones from March 11 to 17, with four teams from each zone qualifying for the World Cup. In Wuhan, Belgium has already qualified as the European champion, leaving three spots available for the remaining five teams.

FAQ

• Q: How many teams qualify from each competition zone?
  A: Four teams qualify from each competition zone.
• Q: Has China already qualified for the World Cup?
  A: Yes, China secured their qualification before their game against the Czech Republic.
• Q: Who led China in scoring against the Czech Republic?
  A: Wang Siyu led China with 14 points.

Pro Tip: Preserve an eye on Brazil’s Cardoso and Dantas – their double-double performances are key to their team’s success!

The FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifiers continue to deliver exciting basketball action. With the stakes high and teams battling for coveted spots, the competition promises to be fierce until the very end.