Australia survives Italy's stunning comeback to reach World Cup quarterfinals

Australia's women's national basketball team defeated Italy 82:80 in Berlin on Wednesday, September 9, securing the last available spot in the World Cup quarterfinals. The team entered the qualification game severely depleted — captain Sami Whitcomb was ruled out nine days before the tournament began, Alanna Smith's competition had already ended due to injury, and center Ezi Magbegor played only four minutes in Wednesday's match.

Borlase steps up as new leader

With key players sidelined, Isobel Borlase emerged as a standout performer, scoring 30 points off the bench to become only the second Australian player after Lauren Jackson to reach that mark. Thanks to her contribution, Australia's lead swelled to 26 points by the 28th minute of play, reaching 66:40.

Italy's remarkable rally

Italy refused to fold, mounting an extraordinary comeback over the following 11 minutes with a 37:11 run. A long-range shot from Costanza Verona tied the score at 77:77 with 69 seconds left in regulation, underlining Italy's fighting spirit.

After both sides traded missed possessions, Jade Melbourne — referred to in the source as Zitina Aokuzo — put Australia back ahead 79:77 with 25 seconds remaining. Italy failed to convert its next possession and committed a violation, allowing Alex Wilson to sink both free throws and extend the lead to 81:77.

Italian coach Andrea Capobianco turned to little-used player Vittoria Blasigh for a final attempt, and she cut the deficit to a single point with a three-pointer, making it 81:80. Following another Italian violation, Borlase converted one of two free throws to make it 82:80. Italy's last attack, through Matilde Villa, ended with the ball rimming out.

Australia will face Spain in the quarterfinals on Thursday at 21:45. The tournament's decisive matches will be broadcast live on Go3.