Philippines, China, Australia and New Zealand advance into semifinal stage

Kai Sotto

China - Lebanon 80-71
China entered the semifinal stage following a hard-fought win over Lebanon. Sun Haoqin (191-F-03) paced the hosts with 23 points. Lebanon secured a 39:38 halftime lead. But China sank 27 points in the third term to spur ahead. They kept in front in the fourth stanza and marched to the victory. Jiao Boqiao (209-C-01) delivered 19 points and 14 rebounds for the hosts. Rayan Zanbaka (189-SG-01) had 20 points and 9 rebounds for Lebanon.

Japan - Philippines 70-72
Philippines eked out a narrow victory over Japan in the quarterfinal clash. Kai Sotto (216-C-02) was unstoppable for the winners with 28 points and 21 rebounds. Japan led by two points at the big break 34:32. However Philippines went on a 25:12 run in the third period to surge ahead. Japan put on a fierce effort to avoid the loss in the fourth period but came up short at the end. Recaredo Calimag (185-SG-01) had 15 points for the winners. Chikara Tanaka (184-G-02) responded with 17 points for Japan.

Australia - South Korea 69-60
Australia stepped on the gas in the second half and fired past South Korea en route to the semis. Wani Swaka (198-F-01) chipped in 15 points to lead the winners. South Korea grabbed a 28:20 halftime lead. But Australia turned things around after the big break. They went on a 36:22 rally in the fourth period to snatch the victory. Luke Jackson (198-F-01) had 12 points and 17 rebounds in the win. Moon Jeonghyeon (190-F-01) replied with 24 points and 10 rebounds for South Korea.

Iran - New Zealand 69-73
New Zealand surprised Iran to advance into the semifinal stage in Foshan. Mitchell Dance (190-SG-01) stepped up with 22 points and 10 rebounds for the Kiwis. Iran enjoyed a 36:33 halftime lead. But New Zealand used a 21:13 rally in the third period to spur ahead. They protected the lead throughout the fourth stanza and raced to the victory. Tom Cowie (184-PG-01) had 17 points in the win. Amirhossein Yazarloo (196-SF-02) answered with 14 points and 10 rebounds for Iran.