China’s men’s 3×3 basketball team achieved a historic milestone at the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup in Singapore on Sunday, clinching the runner-up position in a thrilling final against defending champions Australia. The team, composed of Guo Hanyu, Yan Peng, Zhang Dianliang, and Xiang Zhichao, marked China’s best-ever performance in the tournament’s history.
After topping Pool B, the squad defeated Qatar 19-11 in the quarterfinals and edged past Japan 19-15 in the semifinals. Their final showdown with Australia saw dramatic momentum swings. Despite trailing 7-3 early, the Chinese team tied the score twice, with Zhang Dianliang’s clutch plays pushing them ahead 17-15. Australia narrowly secured the title 21-19 after two decisive free throws in the final moments.
China’s women’s team also made waves, claiming third place with a dominant 21-11 victory over the Philippines. Australia completed a golden sweep by defeating Japan in the women’s final. Both Chinese teams earned spots in the FIBA 3×3 World Cup, set to begin on June 23 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
