Sara Blicavs scored 27 points as Sichuan Yuanda Meile defeated Cathay Life 92-70 in their FIBA Women's Basketball League Asia opener. The game was played at Bengaluru's Sree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium on Tuesday.
Blicavs made four of five three-pointers in the opening quarter, scoring 14 points as Sichuan established a 33-22 lead.
Early response sets the pattern
Cathay Life briefly led 14-11 after a Cheng I-Hsiu three-pointer. Xiao Tong then scored a layup and two free throws, with Gao Song, Tian Yuanyuan and Blicavs helping build a 10-0 run.
Sichuan extended their control with a 22-12 second quarter. Chennedy Carter finished with 22 points, two rebounds, two assists and three steals, while Gao supplied 11 points and six rebounds.
All 12 Sichuan players scored at least two points, and the team registered 26 assists.
More adjustment ahead
Coach Yang Yi said the group still needed time to become familiar with one another because of several new players. Blicavs also welcomed the chance to develop their understanding in a first game together.
Sichuan face the Philippines' Akari Sparks on 22 October at 4pm local time, or 5.30pm in Vietnam, seeking a win to secure first place and a semi-final berth.
Chu Chu scored 16 points for Cathay Life and Liu Hui-Ju added 14. Cathay need a win against Sparks on 21 October to maintain their challenge for a top-two place, with coach Cheng Hui-Yun emphasising continued adjustment and trust.