In a commanding performance, China defeated Japan 100-58 in a group stage game of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, on Thursday. This victory secures China’s spot in the main draw of this summer’s continental tournament ahead of schedule.
China asserted control early in the game, with Zhu Junlong opening the scoring with a layup. Zhao Rui and Xu Jie followed up with consecutive baskets, giving China an early 8-0 lead. Zeng Fanbo’s three-pointer in the second quarter extended the home team’s advantage to double digits.
Japan, despite having already qualified for the Asia Cup’s main draw and a previous win over China in February 2024, struggled against China’s strong defense. They endured a long scoring drought that wasn’t broken until midway through the third quarter.
The Chinese team maintained their momentum, scoring 31 points in the final quarter to seal their fourth victory in the qualifiers. Hu Jinqiu led China with 17 points, sharing the game-high score with Japan’s Ryusei Sasaki. Zhao Rui added 16 points for the hosts.
“Both teams gave the fans an exciting game,” China coach Guo Shiqiang remarked. “Our focus, defensive strategy, and fast breaks were on point.”
Earlier in the day, Mongolia secured its first qualifying win in Group C by defeating Guam 74-63. Looking ahead, China will face Guam on Sunday, while Japan will compete against Mongolia.
The 2025 FIBA Asia Cup is scheduled to take place from August 5-17 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
