South Korea Defeated China in Asian Games Semifinal
South Korea overcame a fourth-quarter deficit to secure an 85-80 victory over the Chinese women's basketball team.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Basketball
Live Poll
Should coaches be dismissed following high-profile tournament losses by national sports teams?
South Korea defeated the Chinese women's basketball team 85-80 in the Asian Games semifinal. The loss sparked immediate criticism from Chinese media toward coach Gong Luming.
Why it matters
The defeat marked a significant disappointment for China, which had held a lead for much of the game before collapsing in the final minutes. The outcome has intensified pressure on the coaching staff following a lackluster tournament performance for the nation's basketball programs.
China failed to convert any of their 13 attempts from beyond the arc. South Korea utilized a decisive 8-0 late-game scoring run to overcome a 7-point deficit in the final quarter.
The players
Gong Luming
He is the head coach of the Chinese women's basketball team who has faced public calls for his dismissal after the team's exit.
Zhang Ziyi
She is a player for the Chinese national team who provided an interior advantage during the early stages of the semifinal game.
The details
China led 41-36 at halftime and maintained a 7-point lead late in the final quarter, relying on Zhang Ziyi to control the interior. However, South Korea surged ahead during an 8-0 run, fueled by consecutive 3-pointers, to seal the 85-80 win.
Timeline
September 25, 2026: Chinese media criticized the team following the semifinal loss.
Season Trajectory
This semifinal loss reflects a broader struggle for Chinese basketball throughout the 2026 Asian Games, mirroring the men's team failure to secure a medal. The result forces a critical evaluation of the current national program structure and coaching leadership following consecutive disappointments.
China finished the tournament without a final appearance in the women's bracket, while the men's squad concluded their run in fourth place after losses to Japan and Iran. The team's inability to hit any 3-point shots was the primary statistical factor in their elimination.
The takeaway
The Chinese team struggled to adapt to South Korea's late-game pressure after relying solely on interior play throughout the match. Shooters will need to address the lack of perimeter efficiency to remain competitive in future international tournament play.
Further reading
For more on international tournaments, visit the Basketball section.
Live Poll
Should coaches be dismissed following high-profile tournament losses by national sports teams?
