China cruise past India, set up showdown with Iran

CHANGSHA-HUNAN (2015 FIBA Asia Championship) - China turned on the style and rolled to a 104-58 triumph over India on Thursday to set up a Semi-Final showdown with Iran at the FIBA Asia Championship.

With Yi Jianlian pouring in 18 of his 21 points in the first half, the Chinese made quick work of their opponents and remained undefeated in the tournament.

China had many more weapons, including those that came off the bench to contribute 22 points before the break.

By reaching the last four, China have clinched a spot in one of the three FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments next year but their aim is to win two more games and capture the Asian title to seal a place in the Rio de Janeiro Games.

Turning Point: India led 7-4 three minutes into the game after a basket from Amritpal Singh when China took over. Zhou Peng and Yi hit jumpers to start a 15-4 run that put the tournament hosts in command for good.

Stats Don't Lie: India's defense had no answers against China, who put the result beyond doubt in the first half when they were 17 of 23 from the floor, including five of 10 from the arc, and a perfect seven of seven at the free-throw line.

Game Hero: Yi has been a dominant player at the tournament and he was unstoppable against India, especially in the first two quarters when making seven of his nine shots from the field and all four of his free throws. He had three thunderous dunks in the first half. Yi made a brief appearance early in the second half before sitting out the remainder of the contest.

The Bottom Line: China were heavy favorites beforehand and they showed why, beating the Indians in every aspect of the contest. As good as Yi was, there were plenty of others making big contributions, like Zhao with his three of six effort from the arc and 13 points in just 13 minutes. The confidence will be high before their clash with Iran, an opponent that promises to give China more problems than any of those they have faced so far.

FIBA