Tang Tian's scoring barrage only reinforced Spain Team's strategy of double-teaming him to the end.
But after overcommitting to the double-team, Yi Jianlian and Zhou Peng seized consecutive opportunities to score.
Spain Team's ten-point lead was erased in an instant.
The two teams fell into a deadlock once again.
The stalemate lasted until two minutes before the end of the game. The score was 85-83, with China Team holding a slim two-point lead.
At this point, any basket could decide the outcome. Every single point was priceless.
Spain Team had possession. Their team offense moved into the frontcourt, and Mirotic launched a three-point shot from outside.
Everyone in the arena held their breath.
"Clang!"
The basketball bounced off the rim, and Mirotic failed to seize the Clutch Shot opportunity.
However, Gasol read the rebound more accurately. After boxing out Yi Jianlian, he grabbed the offensive rebound.
Taking advantage of Zhou Qi losing focus, Mirotic quickly cut toward the basket.
Gasol delivered a Hand-off Pass, and Mirotic took the ball straight up for the layup!
He scored his 24th point of the game and helped Spain Team tie the score!
The Chinese Fans at the arena looked disappointed, while fans following the game on social media were also criticizing Zhou Qi.
Zhou Qi had started in China's first Olympics game, but by now, not only had he become a substitute, he also failed to contribute when the team needed him.
Not every Chinese could become Tang Tian. Tang Tian's emergence had raised Zhou Qi and the others' draft positions, but they still had a long road ahead.
Tang Tian said nothing at that moment. He merely reminded Zhou Qi to watch his defensive positioning.
Zhou Qi had benefited the most from these Olympics. Tang Tian had guided him many times throughout