China's players pose for a photo after the men's final at the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup in Singapore, March 30, 2025. /Xinhua

Guo Hanyu, Yan Peng, Zhang Dianliang, and Xiang Zhichao made history for China by finishing the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup as runners-up, following the final in Singapore on Sunday.

After advancing to the knockout stage as the top team from Pool B, China beat Qatar 19-11 in the quarterfinals and Japan 19-15 in the semifinals, earning the opportunity to meet defending champions Australia for the title.

Australia's advantage in size and athleticism helped the reigning titleholders jump out to a 7-3 lead early in the game. But the Chinese players responded with strong resilience and fiery aggression to tie the score twice, first at 7-7, and then at 11-11.

Zhang moved China on top 15-14 with a layup, and then extended its advantage to 17-15 by putting back Guo's missed layup. The contest remained close after Australia tied things at 17-17 with an outside shot. With the score level at 19-19, Australia earned two free throws, and converted both attempts to clinch a two-point win.

Despite the loss, the Chinese men achieved their best result at the Asia Cup after finishing as runners-up. The team also secured qualification for the World Cup, which will tip off on June 23 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

China's women finished the Asia Cup in third place after thrashing the Philippines 21-11 in the bronze medal game, while Australia made it a golden sweep by defeating Japan 21-17 in the final. Each of the top-three teams has qualified for the World Cup.