Tension gripped Changsha’s court as China’s women’s basketball team clinched a 74-69 overtime win against Brazil in a gripping practice game Wednesday, priming for World Cup qualifiers. The Hunan Province encounter highlighted strengths and vulnerabilities alike.
A tight first quarter gave way to China’s second-quarter mastery, restricting Brazil to 11 points. Wang Siyu’s flawless 13-point half fueled a 39-26 lead.
Third-quarter extension to 55-40 dissolved in the fourth with China’s scant nine points, matched by Brazil’s tying three at the buzzer for 64-64. Overtime belonged to Chang Jie, who orchestrated the decisive push.
Main coach Kong Luming emphasized elite prep games’ importance. Friday’s rematch looms large. The 2026 qualifiers, set for Wuhan March 11-17, group China with Brazil, Belgium, South Sudan, Czech Republic, and Mali.