Taiwan Basketball Loses to China, Extends Losing Streak

Taiwan's men's national basketball team suffered a 74-92 defeat against China in their final group stage match of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers. This loss extended Taiwan's losing streak against China to eight consecutive games. The team concluded the first round of qualifiers with a 2-4 record.

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China played better today; they were more decisive in handling the ball and aggressively pursued rebounds.

Captain Chen Ying-Chun reflected on the game, admitting that China played a more effective and assertive style. "China played better today; they were more decisive in handling the ball and aggressively pursued rebounds," Chen stated. He also pointed out deficiencies in Taiwan's defense, noting a lack of sufficient pressure on the ball and delayed help defense. "I think we did what we could, fighting for every win, but there are definitely many areas where we could have done better."

China entered the game facing elimination, while Taiwan's progression to the next round depended on the outcome of the later match between Japan and South Korea. Chen acknowledged the differing pressure levels, noting that China played with more initiative and assertiveness due to their must-win situation. "Whenever we step on the court, we want to win. They had more pressure, played more proactively and forcefully, which is something we didn't handle well," he added.

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I think we did what we could, fighting for every win, but there are definitely many areas where we could have done better.

Despite the loss, Chen emphasized the team's effort and commitment. He highlighted his own contribution, including a seven-point run early in the fourth quarter of the previous game against South Korea that helped secure a comeback victory. In the match against China, he scored 19 points, striving to help his team close the gap. The team now awaits the results of other matches to determine their potential advancement.

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Whenever we step on the court, we want to win. They had more pressure, played more proactively and forcefully, which is something we didn't handle well.