HAINING (FIBA Diamond Ball for Women) - Mali pushed China hard for three quarters but the Olympic hosts pulled away over the last 10 minutes for a 91-67 triumph at the FIBA Diamond Ball for Women.

Chen Nan had 24 points to lead the Chinese, who trailed by as many as five points early on but hit back to lead 35-32 at half-time.

Tom Maher’s team still encountered a lot of resistance with Djenebou Sissoko’s 24 points sparking the African champions to keep them within striking distance at 61-50 with only the fourth quarter to play.

China then went on a 17-4 run over the next five minutes for a 78-54 lead and they cruised the rest of the way.

Chen Nan had 24 points for China while Chen Xiaoli scored 11 and dished out five assists and Bian Lan poured in eight with five assists.

FIBA