Denso Iris Women held off Cathay Life Women 86–78 on October 24, 2026, in a FIBA Women’s Basketball League Asia matchup that was close for three quarters before Denso’s late execution sealed the result. The Japanese club combined balanced scoring with timely defensive stops, improving their position in the early competition standings while handing Cathay Life a tough loss.

Match Overview

The 21:30 tip-off produced a lively, back-and-forth contest. Denso led 21–19 after the opening quarter and took a 44–39 advantage into halftime. Cathay Life stayed within reach by attacking the basket and forcing turnovers, but Denso created separation in the third and answered every fourth-quarter challenge.

• Final score: Denso Iris Women 86, Cathay Life Women 78
• Quarter scores: 21–19, 23–20, 20–17, 22–22
• League: FIBA Women’s Basketball League Asia
• Date: October 24, 2026

Key Moments

The decisive run came late in the third quarter. With Cathay Life threatening to take the lead, Denso strung together a 9–2 surge built on offensive rebounds and a pair of transition baskets. That stretch gave Denso a 64–56 cushion entering the final period. Cathay Life cut the deficit to five with under four minutes remaining, but Denso responded with a composed half-court possession and a defensive stop on the other end.

In the closing minutes, Denso’s free-throw shooting and decision-making protected the lead. Cathay Life had chances, but a few rushed possessions and missed open looks prevented a final comeback.

Tactical Story

Denso’s offense was at its best when the ball moved side to side and forced Cathay Life’s defense into rotation. The Japanese side generated quality looks from the perimeter and attacked closeouts, finishing with a balanced scoring effort. Defensively, Denso limited second-chance opportunities and forced Cathay Life into contested jumpers late in the shot clock.

Cathay Life’s speed caused problems in the open court, and their guards consistently pressured the rim. However, Denso’s size on the boards and ability to slow the game in the half court proved decisive. The rebounding battle and turnover margin told much of the story.

Standout Performers

Denso’s backcourt controlled pace and made key shots in the fourth quarter, while their interior players protected the rim and cleaned up the glass. Cathay Life’s leading scorers kept the team close with aggressive drives and mid-range shooting, but the supporting cast struggled to find consistent offense against Denso’s compact defense.

What It Means

The win strengthens Denso Iris Women’s standing in the FIBA Women’s Basketball League Asia table and gives them a useful head-to-head edge. Cathay Life leave with a competitive performance but will focus on late-game execution and defensive rebounding. In a league where point differential and tiebreakers can matter, Denso’s eight-point margin could prove valuable as the competition progresses.