China's women's basketball team suffered a 76-63 defeat against Australia in a pre-FIBA Asia Cup warm-up match in Haikou on Sunday, marking their first loss in a five-game series. The team had previously secured back-to-back victories against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Japan in June.
The game began competitively, with China's Han Xu scoring the opening basket. However, Australia exploited defensive gaps after Han's substitution, ending the first quarter with a 28-19 lead. China's offense faltered in the second quarter due to turnovers and fouls, allowing Australia to extend their advantage to 18 points by halftime.
A resurgence in the third quarter saw China narrow the gap to 7 points, fueled by three-pointers from Yang Liwei and Luo Xinyu. Australia countered with decisive three-point shots to secure the win. Han Xu led China with 15 points and 9 rebounds, while Australia's Isabelle Bourne matched her 15-point contribution.
The teams will face off again on Tuesday in Changsha, Hunan Province, as both prepare for the FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2025 in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, scheduled for July 13–20.
