In a physical matchup against Chinese Taipei, the Seven Consulting Opals have come away with their second win of the 2023 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup on Tuesday night, 91-45.
The first quarter saw the Opals get out to an early lead, but some missed buckets and some tough defence from Chinese Taipei kept the Aussies at bay. It was a similar story in the second, the Opals built on their lead, but were still unable to break the game wide open.
However, Australia proved to be too big, too strong, too good and it was a gutsy performance in the second half to get the job done. Keely Froling took Player of the Game honours after top-scoring with 16 points and nine rebounds.
“For me, I don’t think about my scoring, I think about rebounding, that sort of thing, the easy baskets and I think that kind of gets me into my groove where I can score a little more.
But honestly, I try to do the little stuff first and then the scoring comes with it,” Froling told BA Media post-game.
Anneli Maley had an explosive night of her own, claiming an impressive 15 boards for the game.
“I think that they [Chinese Taipei] play a really fun style of basketball, and it felt a lot closer than it was,” said Maley.
“If you know me you know the physical aspect of the game is what I love doing. I think that I just try and play with my all every time I step onto the floor.
“It’s always super special [wearing the green and gold] and I get to wear number 24 which is my dad’s number, so it’s always really special that I get to represent Australia and my dad at the same time.”
Maley and the Opals now look forward to tomorrow night’s matchup against reigning Champions, Japan in their final group-phase game.
“They’re a talented group of players and they challenge us, but we are up to the challenge. Shannon [Seebohm] and all of our coaches will put together a really good scout, it’ll be really exciting and a good one to watch.”
Tune in tomorrow night at 7:30pm AEST on ESPN/Kayo/Foxtel.
For more information on the 2023 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup click here.
