In a breathtaking final in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Australia ousted China, 90-89, to secure their third consecutive FIBA Asia Cup title. 

The Boomers survived China, who built a huge 15-point lead in the first half, which was a powerful testament to their dominance in the competition.

China stunned the Boomers early in the second quarter, paced by Hu Jinqiu and Hu Mingxuan’s scoring surge. 

Australia’s comeback began in earnest in the second half, trimming the deficit to just four points by halftime. Then, the final quarter turned into a nail-biter. William Hickey gave the Boomers a critical late lead, and although China fought back, Hu Mingxuan’s last-second three-point attempt rimmed out, sealing Australia's victory.

Xavier Cooks, who was named the Final MVP, powered the win with 30 points on 13-of-17 shooting and nine rebounds. Jaylin Galloway, delivering in his first Asia Cup Final, drilled six threes and poured in 23 points, earning Tournament MVP and a spot on the All-Star Five, alongside teammate Jack McVeigh.

William Hickey played a pivotal role in crunch time, recording 15 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and two blocks, including clutch plays that shifted momentum.

China's valiant effort was led by Hu Mingxuan’s 26 points and Hu Jinqiu’s 20-point, 10-rebound double-double, keeping things tight until the final buzzer.

With this win, Australia remains undefeated in Asia Cup play, now boasting an 18-0 record since its debut in 2017. They join China as only the second nation in tournament history to achieve a three-peat, China having previously done so in 2003.

Despite the loss, China's resurgence – returning to the Finals for the first time since 2015 – signals promising momentum. Team captain Zhao Rui highlighted this as merely the beginning of the revival of Chinese basketball.