China battles from behind to defeat Japan 87-80 in FIBA World Cup Qualifying

China battled from behind in spirited fashion in Okinawa on Thursday, overturning a 14‑point halftime deficit to beat Japan 87-80 and record its first win in Asian Group B in 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifying.

Japan dominated early as Yuta Watanabe picked his spots and China's defense repeatedly found itself in foul trouble, sending the home side to the free throw line 14 times in the first quarter. The Japanese team led 21-11 after a sloppy opening period, before momentarily extending the margin to as many as 15 points.

The hosts took a 47-33 lead into the locker room despite brief sparks from Chinese guard Liao Sanning, who created opportunities off the dribble and in transition.

Everything that went wrong for China in the first half seemed to go right after the intermission. The visitors sharpened their defense with aggressive switching and tighter perimeter pressure, forcing turnovers and generating offensive rhythm. A 13-0 run flipped the script as the visitors outscored Japan 25-9 in the third quarter and entered the final period holding a 58-56 edge.

The fourth quarter was scrappy. Zhu Junlong hit a pivotal corner three, while Zhao Rui attacked the rim before later fouling out on an offensive charge. Tensions flared on the sideline after several technical and unsportsmanlike fouls were called against China.

Japan closed the gap at the line, but Hu Jinqiu's consecutive buckets and key block, along with a clutch three‑point play from Zhao Jiwei, steadied the visiting squad and helped seal the victory.

Five Chinese players reached double figures. Hu led with 20 points and 12 rebounds, while Liao added 16 points and five assists, with Zhao Jiwei contributing 14 points. He Xining tallied 12 points and Zhao Rui finished with 10.

The win moves China to 1-2 in Group B and gives the team fresh momentum, ahead of Sunday's road game at Chinese Taipei.