Japan's men and China's women secured momentous victories in the thrilling wheelchair basketball competitions at the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Para Games.
The women's wheelchair basketball final at the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Para Games was a spectacular showdown as arch-rivals China and Japan clashed for the fourth time in the competition's history.
China and Japan had previously crossed paths in the women's final three times in a row at the Asian Para Games. The rivalry began with Japan claiming victory in the inaugural edition in Guangzhou in 2010. However, in the subsequent two Games, China emerged victorious, establishing their dominance in this fiercely contested sport.
Thailand Seizes Bronze
Before the grand finale, the competition reached its thrilling conclusion. Thailand displayed their resilience and determination as they secured the Bronze medal by defeating I.R. Iran with a commanding score of 46-31. Despite a shaky start, losing the first quarter, Thailand rebounded with remarkable strength in the second and third quarters. This surge created an insurmountable gap for the Iranian women to bridge in the final quarter.
China's dominate in Gold Medal Match
In the highly anticipated Gold medal match, China faced off against their arch-nemesis, Japan. The Chinese team, having already tasted victory against Japan in the Group stage, commenced the contest with a strong performance, winning the first quarter with a score of 17-8. Although Japan put up a fierce fight in the second quarter, China's women came back even stronger in the latter half of the game, eventually emerging as the triumphant champions with a convincing scoreline of 61-30.
In a captivating showdown, China took the initiative from the outset and dominated their fourth encounter at the Asian Para Games. Lin Suiling emerged as the MVP of the game, scoring a game-high 21 points for China, while Lyu Guidi and Zhang Tonglei made significant contributions with 12 and 11 points, respectively.
Japan's Men’s Team Secures Gold
Meanwhile, the men's wheelchair basketball competition witnessed an equally gripping showdown as Japan faced off against the Republic of Korea. In a nail-biting battle that saw the lead shifting throughout the game, Japan's men's team managed to pull back from an eight-point deficit at halftime (19-27) to secure the Gold medal. They were behind after every quarter, but an exceptional final quarter performance (12-7) allowed them to pull ahead, winning 47-45 and clinching the top honor.
Iran claim Bronze
In the Bronze medal match, I.R. Iran demonstrated their prowess with a resounding victory over China, triumphing with a score of 79-35. The competition in both the men's and women's categories showcased the remarkable talent and tenacity of the athletes, making the Asian Para Games a celebration of inclusivity and athletic excellence.
Final Standings
Women
- China (Gold)
- Japan (Silver)
- Thailand (Bronze)
- I.R. Iran
- Cambodia
- Lao PDR
Men
- Japan (Gold)
- Republic of Korea (Silver)
- I.R. Iran (Bronze)
- China
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Afghanistan
- Chinese Taipei
- Philippines
- Kuwait
Picture Credit: Hangzhou 2022 Asian Para Games.
