Taiwan's New Basketball Generation Faces China in World Cup Qualifier

Taiwan's men's basketball team is set to face China in a crucial final match of the first round of the 2027 World Cup Asian Qualifiers. The game represents a significant opportunity for the Taiwanese squad to not only end a seven-game losing streak against their rivals but also to make their closest approach to the World Cup finals since the tournament's format was revised in 2019.

The historical context of this matchup is significant. Taiwan's last victory over China in a FIBA top-tier international competition dates back to the 2013 Asian Championship. Led by "golden generation" stars like Lin Chih-chieh and Tien Lei, Taiwan staged a remarkable comeback from a 17-point deficit to win 96-78, a victory still fondly remembered by fans.

While Taiwan has only managed one win in 13 previous encounters with China, the team has achieved victories in other tournaments. Notably, they defeated China in the 2013 East Asian Games and the 2014 Wuhan Asia Cup. The latter victory, achieved by a younger squad including Chen Kuan-chuan, then only 20 years old, highlights the team's potential.

Now, players like 32-year-old Chen Kuan-chuan, along with 33-year-olds Hu Lung-mao and Chen Ying-Chun, who were part of the 2014 team, are leading the current squad. They aim to replicate past successes and inspire a new generation. "We haven't beaten China in a long time, and we will work hard to create a miracle this time," said Hu Lung-mao. Chen Ying-Chun, who first represented the national team in 2014, expressed a desire to pass on his experience to younger players, emphasizing the importance of continuity and mentorship.

“

We haven't beaten China in a long time, and we will work hard to create a miracle this time.