Australia vs. Japan box score, result: Opals crowned FIBA Women's Asia Cup champions

The Australian Opals were crowned FIBA Women's Asia Cup champions for the first time, after defeating Japan in the final 88-79.

After three straight bronze medals in the tournament and a silver in 2017, the Opals not only took home the gold, but also earned themselves automatic qualification for the 2026 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

The Opals led at every break, but they had to dig deep down the stretch as Japan reeled off an 11-0 run in the fourth quarter to tie the game at 70-70 with 6:45 remaining, before back-to-back buckets from Ally Wilson restored the advantage for the Aussies.

Australia found an extra gear down the stretch as Wilson played a pivotal role in a 12-2 run, which saw the Aussies lead 85-75 with 2:46 remaining. She scored 13 of her 14 points in the final frame, coming up clutch for the Opals.

"We knew coming in that Japan had a huge win last night against China and that they're gonna be a formidable opponent," Opals head Coach Paul Goriss said. "I think that our team and the players really bought into the game plan..

"Really happy and proud of the team for their efforts this whole week."

 

 

 

 

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Alex Fowler led the Aussies with 16 points, six rebounds, two assists, and a block on 7-of-11 shooting from the field, on her way to being named Tournament Most Valuable Player.

She finished the tournament with averages of 11.8 points, on 60 percent shooting and 37.5 percent from the 3-point line, adding 7.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.4 steals.

Stephanie Reid, who was also named to the tournament's All-Star Five alongside Fowler, added 13 points and four assists in the final, while Zitina Aokuso chipped in with 11 points, eight rebounds, four assists and a block.

Australia vs. Japan final score

Australia vs. Japan: Opals box score

FIBA Women's Asia Cup: Opals results