China got off to a perfect start at the FIBA Women's Asia Cup with a thoroughly dominant win over the Philippines on Monday night. With lethal shooting and exceptional teamwork, Xu Limin's side piled relentless pressure on their opponents from the first minute before quickly pulling away in a 143-52 triumph in Amman, Jordan. 

Yang Liwei of China led the way with 21 points, five assists, and five steals. Li Yueru scored 18 points, Han Xu had 17 points, while Zhang Ru added 15 points, seven assists, and three steals. Li Yuan and Li Yifan each had 10 in the one-sided affair. Afril Bernardino was the only Philippine player to hit double figures with 17 points.

China will play their next game against Chinese Taipei on Tuesday night before wrapping up their Group B campaign against world number three Australia, who edged Chinese Taipei 76-65 with talisman Darcee Garbin notching 15 points. 

"After coming back from the Olympics, we have been training and haven't had a competitive match for a long time, so I am very happy to get this result today," beamed China coach Xu. "Our young players are earning experience through this kind of competition. It's a great opportunity for them to learn." 

In another lopsided encounter, four-time champions Japan began the defense of their Asia Cup title in Group A with a 136-46 mauling of India. Kiho Miyashita finished with a game-high 27 points, while Saori Miyazaki dished out 12 assists. South Korea also got off to a winning start with a comfortable win over New Zealand 85-69. 

The top team from each of the two groups will earn a direct berth in the semifinals, while the other two semifinalists will be determined via qualification matches. The eventual winners will be crowned on October 3.