JEDDAH – In a nail-biting opener at the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup, the China men's basketball team edged the hosts Saudi Arabia 93-88 in Group C action. 🤩
Despite building a 15-point lead early on, China saw their advantage shrink in a see-saw second half. But clutch plays down the stretch sealed the win for the record 16-time champions. 🏆
Hu Jinqiu starred with a team-high 20 points, while Zhao Rui chipped in 19 points, grabbed 4 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists.
"Opening games are always tough, especially against the hosts," said coach Guo Shiqiang. "Our players stayed focused and executed the game plan for all 40 minutes."
Hu Jinqiu added: "No matter the score, we played with toughness. Saudi Arabia applied heavy pressure, so we had to adapt quickly and use our strengths." 🇨🇳
Next up for China: a Thursday showdown with India. Can the champs keep rolling? Stay tuned! 🔥
Reference(s):
China beat tournament hosts Saudi Arabia 93-88 in FIBA Asia Cup opener
cgtn.com
