7
Jul
Match Recap
Reid helps Opals fight off China in series opener
Stephanie Reid of Australia shoots a free throw during the match between Australia Opals and China at John Cain Arena on July 07, 2026 in Melbourne, Australia. Photo: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images
A bunch of young stars took centre stage as the Opals and China battled it out at John Cain Arena
- ‘Summer is our identity’: WNBL to withstand season change
- WNBL27 Roster Tracker: Every move in free agency
- Lynx legend Sami Whitcomb returns on two-year deal
The Australian Opals made a winning start to their two-game international series against China, holding off a spirited late comeback to claim a hard-fought 76-74 victory at John Cain Arena in Melbourne on Tuesday night.
The result provides valuable momentum for the Opals as they continue preparations for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.
In a contest featuring two of the world’s leading women’s basketball nations, Australia overcame an early Chinese challenge before taking control through the middle stages of the game. The Opals led 39-35 at half-time after a composed opening two quarters, with their balanced offence and defensive pressure beginning to frustrate the visitors.
Australia extended its advantage after the main break, stretching the margin into double figures during the third quarter. Crisp ball movement and efficient scoring allowed the Opals to dictate the tempo, while their defensive intensity limited China’s opportunities in transition.
Steph Reid produced a standout performance for the home side, finishing with a game-high 16 points, including several crucial baskets in the closing minutes. Alex Wilson added 15 points, while Isabelle Bourne contributed 13 as Australia showcased impressive scoring depth across its rotation.
China refused to go away, however, and mounted a determined fightback in the fourth quarter. Eighteen-year-old centre Zhang Ziyu again demonstrated why she is regarded as one of the brightest young talents in international basketball, scoring 18 points and proving a constant threat in the paint with her imposing size and touch around the basket.
The visitors erased Australia's double-digit lead, setting up a tense finish in front of an enthusiastic Melbourne crowd. China had opportunities to level the scores in the closing stages, but the Opals remained composed under pressure. Timely defensive stops and Reid's late scoring proved decisive as Australia held on for a narrow two-point victory.
The performance highlighted the Opals' growing chemistry despite fielding a squad featuring experienced internationals alongside emerging talent. Coach and players will also be encouraged by the team's resilience, successfully withstanding China's final-quarter surge to secure the result.
The victory gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the two-game series ahead of Thursday's second meeting at John Cain Arena. With both teams using the series as important preparation for September's FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in Germany, another high-quality contest is expected as China looks to level the series and the Opals aim to complete a clean sweep on home court.
.jpg)
.jpg)
