The Indian U16 women’s basketball team produced a composed yet emphatic performance to book their spot in the final of the FIBA U16 Women’s Asia Cup Division B, defeating Indonesia 65-53 at Arena Seremban on Wednesday.
With this victory, India not only secured a place in the championship game but also kept alive their dream of promotion to Division A a milestone that would mark a new chapter for the country in youth basketball. The semi-final was a story of grit, adjustments, and resilience. After a first half that ended all square at 24-24, India found another gear in the second, spearheaded by the brilliance of Viha Reddy Jonnalagadda and Reva Amit Kulkarni. The duo combined for 39 points, breaking Indonesia’s resistance and propelling India into their first Division B final in eight years.
The opening minutes reflected the nerves of a semi-final, with both sides cautious and struggling to find rhythm. Indonesia’s captain, Fiorenza Celesta, made the early impression with her mid-range accuracy, scoring two quick baskets to set the tone. India, though, responded through Jonnalagadda, who drove aggressively to the rim and later sank a three-pointer. The first quarter ended locked at 11-11, highlighting the defensive intensity on both ends. India forced six turnovers across the first two quarters but failed to capitalize in transition, missing several fast-break opportunities. The second quarter followed a similar script. Both teams exchanged baskets, Indonesia relying on Celesta’s leadership while India leaned on Kulkarni’s presence inside.
By halftime, the score was 24-24, and the atmosphere inside the arena suggested that the game would be decided in the finer margins of execution.
The turning point came in the third quarter. Jonnalagadda took control, scoring eight points in the frame, including a steal-and-score sequence that sparked an 11-0 Indian run. Her versatility attacking the rim, rebounding, and leading the fast break proved decisive. Indonesia, who shot just 24% from the field across the game, struggled to find answers against India’s growing defensive intensity.
By the end of the third, India had carved out a 44-40 lead. The margin may have seemed modest, but the momentum was firmly on India’s side.
The fourth quarter sealed Indonesia’s fate. India outscored them 21-13, with Kulkarni stepping up to deliver two crucial three-pointers that widened the gap. Sneha Patel, the point guard, orchestrated the offense with calm assurance, registering six assists that kept India’s ball movement fluid. From the free-throw line, India converted at 66.7%, showing composure under pressure. Defensively, they limited Indonesia to 18.8% shooting from beyond the arc, closing out shooters effectively while dominating the boards.
When the final buzzer sounded, India had secured a 65-53 win, sending players and coaches alike into joyous celebration.
Key Performances
- Viha Reddy Jonnalagadda (India): The 15-year-old was simply outstanding. She poured in 22 points on 8/16 shooting, added 12 rebounds, 2 assists, a steal, and a block in 32 minutes of play. Her efficiency rating of 27 was the highest of the game, underlining her status as India’s brightest rising star.
- Reva Amit Kulkarni (India): Contributing 17 points and 8 rebounds, Kulkarni’s timely scoring was invaluable. Though she committed seven turnovers, her ability to stretch the floor with three triples in high-pressure moments gave India the cushion they needed.
- Sneha Patel (India): Though she scored little, Patel’s six assists showcased her importance in running India’s offense. Her vision allowed Jonnalagadda and Kulkarni to thrive.
- Fiorenza Celesta (Indonesia): The Indonesian captain scored 10 points and fought valiantly, but India’s second-half defensive schemes contained her.
- Rania Putri (Indonesia): Her hustle stood out with 8 points and 7 rebounds. She played a key role in Indonesia’s brief third-quarter push before India’s run broke the contest open.
The Bigger Picture
India’s triumph was more than just a semi-final win. It marked a return to the Division B final for the first time since 2017. More importantly, it showed the depth of talent emerging in Indian women’s basketball. The team’s unity has been as vital as individual brilliance. While Jonnalagadda and Kulkarni have been the headline performers, the contributions of Patel, Ananya Prakash, and the bench have created a balanced side that can handle different game situations.
India will now face the winner of the Iran in the championship clash on September 19. A victory there would seal Division A promotion, something India has been chasing for nearly a decade.
For Jonnalagadda, the final is personal as well as collective. “We came here to win it all. One more game, and we’re ready to make history,” she said, reflecting the fearless mindset that has defined India’s campaign so far.
India’s 65-53 win over Indonesia was a triumph of resilience, teamwork, and belief. From a tense first half to a commanding second, the Blue Tigresses showed why they deserve a place among Asia’s elite. The semi-final was not just about a scoreline; it was about a statement. India is no longer knocking on the door of Division A they are ready to walk through it.
With one game left, the opportunity to make history beckons. If India plays the way they did against Indonesia, Division A may just have to make room for a new contender.
