THE Australian Gems have claimed its first-ever Under 18 FIBA Asian Championship over the last few days, emerging winners in the championship game against the reigning champs in China, who have been dethroned after five consecutive titles.

It was the perfect way to cap off a dominant series from the Aussies, who announced their intentions early with imposing wins over India, New Zealand and Korea in the group phase, before overcoming a genuine challenge from the Chinese Taipei in the semi final.

With David Herbert at the helm and bringing plenty of experience from his current tenure at the Centre of Excellence, the Gems looked the strongest side of the tournament across their five games, with their four out of their five triumphs coming by at least 26 points.

In the decider against China – who had plenty of experience in the championship match – Australia was able to outwork the opposition, getting out to an early lead and never looking back.

It is Australia’s maiden championship in the competition, with its previous best effort culminating in a third place finish in 2018.

The Gems boasted a talented list coming into the fixture, with nine of its 12 players a part of the Centre of Excellence, and many brought NBL1 experience too.

Isla Juffermans was named MVP of the tournament after a dominant campaign came to a head with an impactful showing in the championship game. She was one of two players to average a double-double across the course of the carnival (17 points, 11 rebounds), while also shooting quite efficiently from the field, with slightly under two-thirds of her field goal attempts finding the bottom of the net.

In the big dance, Juffermans stood up in a big way, stuffing the stat sheet to finish with figures of 26 points, 15 boards and three steals with China unable to contain the 194cm center. Also impressing in the deciding match was Dallas Loughridge, who saved her best outing for last with 17 points and eight dimes as the Aussies brought it home.

The consistency of Isobel Borlase across the tournament was also crucial to Australia’s success, with the 18-year-old in the top five for points, assists and steals per game.

The Gems’ strong form now sees them eligible for the Under 19 FIBA Basketball World Cup, which is set to take place in Madrid, Spain.