DAKAR, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- China narrowly missed out on the women's 3x3 basketball gold medal at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games on Monday, losing 12-11 to Poland in the final.
The team, comprising Sun Hanyun, Gu Manjie, Zhu Zihan and Tang Yihan, had reached the final after edging host Senegal 21-19 in the semifinals earlier in the day, with both matches played in temperatures reaching 36 degrees Celsius.
Against Senegal, the teams were tied at 19-19 with 1 minute, 9 seconds remaining before Sun scored two consecutive points to send China into the gold medal match.
Poland made the stronger start in the final, with Stefania Onuorah helping her team establish an early three-point advantage.
China fought back to close the gap but was unable to complete the comeback, falling just one point short of gold.
The Chinese quartet were visibly emotional after the final buzzer, with several breaking down in tears on the court.
China coach Liu Shengbin praised his players for overcoming difficult conditions, including the heat, jet lag and dietary adjustments, but acknowledged that their determination to win had contributed to mistakes at crucial moments.
Liu said the pressure had affected the team's composure, resulting in unforced errors and missed open shots.
"They gave it everything they had. I have no regrets," Liu said.
The coach added that the four student-athletes had gained valuable international experience in Dakar, particularly in their understanding of 3x3 basketball tactics, match management and competition rules.
He expressed hope that they would continue developing their skills in either 3x3 or traditional five-on-five basketball.
The players will return to their respective schools after the Games, with Sun and Gu expected to compete in national youth competitions before preparing for the China High School Basketball League.
China won the inaugural women's 3x3 basketball gold medal at the 2010 Youth Olympics. Its appearance in Monday's final marked its return to the gold medal match for the first time in 16 years. ■
