Shenzhen
India’s women’s basketball team advanced to the semi-final qualifiers at the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025 Division B after defeating Tahiti 78-55 in their final Group A match on Wednesday.
Sreekala Rani was India’s top performer, scoring 15 points, grabbing six rebounds, and giving five assists. She started the game with a strong two-point layup. Although India, ranked world No. 15, struggled early, they found their rhythm soon after. Tahiti matched India at first, but India pulled away with a 10-point run to lead 25-13 at the end of the first quarter.
By half-time, India led 46-25. The third quarter was closer, ending 61-40. India then kept their lead in the final quarter to secure the win.
With this victory, India finished second in Group A with five points, just behind Chinese Taipei, who beat Kazakhstan earlier in the day. Chinese Taipei directly entered the semi-finals, while India will face the third-placed team from Group B in the semi-final qualifiers on Friday.
India returned to the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup after missing the 2023 edition due to relegation from Division A in 2021. Now competing in Division B, they hope to win the title and return to Division A next year.
Eight teams are playing in Division B, split into two groups. The top team from each group moves straight to the semis, while the second and third-placed teams play extra matches to decide the remaining spots.
India’s strong team spirit and Sreekala Rani’s standout performance have given fans hope for promotion back to Division A.