Semi-Finals: Australia and Japan set up a Final between unbeaten teams

BENGALURU (FIBA U16 Women's Asia Championship 2017) - Both Australia and Japan won their Semi-Finals games in convincing fashion to set up a dream Final between the tournament's two unbeaten sides.

The Sapphires negated China's imposing size with great ball movement and terrific defense, eventually earning a runaway victory, 86-46. Agnes Emma-Nnopu won her personal head-to-head with China's Liu Yutong, scoring 17 points, grabbing 6 rebounds and getting 4 steals for Australia. Yutong, meanwhile, had her worst game of the competition, putting up a paltry 3 points - all from the free throw line. Australia have a shot at winning their first ever FIBA U16 Women's Asia Championship title tomorrow, but they will have to hurdle mighty Japan.

Japan, who have ruled this tournament only once, are quite eager to show their wares in the Final against a bigger Australia. They made short work of New Zealand, 97-65, who were heading into this game winners of three in a row. Wingman Yuki Shuto came off the bench to lead Japan, scoring 24 points on 11-of-16 field goal shooting. Misa Hayashi and Aika Hirashita followed him up with 19 and 14 points respectively. The U16 Tall Ferns, who are now relegated to the battle for third place, were paced by Charlisse Leger-Walker with 22 points, 7 boards and 5 assists.

In the 5th to 8th place games, Korea cruised past Hong Kong, 109-63, to preserve their place in Division A. Likewise, Chinese Taipei salvaged a win after staving off pesky Thailand, 74-69, in the day's second game. Tomorrow's losing team between Hong Kong and Thailand will be relegated to Division B.

RESULTS:

Korea beat Hong Kong, 109-63
Chinese Taipei beat Thailand, 74-69
Australia beat China, 86-46
Japan beat New Zealand, 97-65

FIBA