The game vs Japan: Team China's last shot

On the chance of qualifying for the FIBA World Cup, "I have always believed in every member of the Chinese men’s basketball team. Everyone fought hard, but we simply didn’t perform as well as our opponents. I hope that next time we can make a strong start — and remember this defeat, " said Hu Jinqiu. The next opportunity comes in February 2026, away against Japan — a match Team China absolutely cannot afford to lose.