China edges Lebanon 89-87 in FIBA World Cup Qualifier

China secured a narrow 89-87 victory over Lebanon in a FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifier held at the Xishi Basketball Centre in Zhuji. The win, driven by a late-game score from 21-year-old center Yang Hansen, improves China’s record to 5-3 in the second stage of qualifying and maintains their third-place position in the group.

Yang Hansen recorded a standout performance with 19 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists. The match was marked by high tension, including a fourth-quarter disturbance where a 16-year-old spectator in a VIP seat was forcibly removed by security after throwing a ball onto the court. The ball struck China captain Zhao Jiwei following a foul on Yang. Commentators suggested the spectator acted out of frustration regarding uncalled physical fouls by Lebanon’s naturalized center, DJ Funderburk.

The victory is seen as a significant step for China’s young roster as it seeks stability in the era following players like Yao Ming and Yi Jianlian.