China's women's 3×3 basketball team suffered a dramatic 21-19 overtime defeat against host nation Mongolia at the FIBA 3×3 World Cup in Ulaanbaatar on Friday, ending their quest for quarterfinal qualification in a nail-biting crossover match.
The Chinese squad entered the game with a clear height advantage, dominating rebounds early and maintaining pressure through physical play. However, persistent foul trouble allowed Mongolia to stay within striking distance, setting the stage for a tense fourth-quarter showdown.
With 20 seconds remaining in regulation and the score tied at 17-17, veteran player Zhang Wanglai appeared to secure victory with a clutch layup. But a controversial defensive foul sent Mongolia to the free-throw line, where they leveled the score again. Zhang's quick thinking forced a critical jump ball moments later, leading to another basket that pushed the game into overtime.
"Our players showed tremendous heart," said a team spokesperson after the match. "Small margins decide these high-intensity games, and today they didn't fall our way."
The loss marks China's earliest exit from the tournament since 2018, while Mongolia advances to face top-seeded France. Analysts note the result highlights the growing competitiveness of 3×3 basketball across Asia, with six Asian teams now ranked in the sport's global top 20.
