by T. Prem Kumar
Riding the momentum of their brilliant showing in the early stages of the 19th FILA Asian Basketball Championship for Women, held from October 4 to11, China set out as prohibitive favourites for the title when they met Japan in the final at the Rajamankarapisek Indoor Stadium in the Huamark Complex in Bangkok, Thailand.

They defeated Japan 105 to 76 in the final on October 11.

However, there was no brawl this time. Only a clinical demonstration of offensive might and defensive savvy by the Chinese.

By first quarter both teams score were level 21 each, and by halftime China were ahead by 18 points and had left little doubt as to the outcome. Still they stepped up their attack and relaxed only in the third quarter when victory was certain.

The final tally, 105 - 76 was reflective of the Chinese superiority.

In this tournament . The highest individual score wasmade by Center Chen Nan (197cm) of China with 50 points in the final match which was refereed by Chompoo and Chantal.

This Championship offered an opportunity for four Asian teams to participate in the World Championship in China in 2002. As hosts, China will receive an automatic berth in this prestigious event. The other three teams are Japan (First runner-up), Korea (Second runner-up) and Chinese Taipei (Third runner-up).