Athens silver medallists Australia won the title of the 2005 International Women's Basketball Tournament on Saturday after an overtime 85-77 win over China. (Reuters)

Athens silver medallists Australia won the title of the 2005 International Women's Basketball Tournament on Saturday after an overtime 85-77 win over China.

The Asian champions, boosted by the thundering applause and cheers from the audience, almost had their win with two seconds to go in the regular time, but only saw Australia's Erin Phillips scored two points to tie the game at 73-73 and led the game into overtime.

After Carly Wilson made two points to tie the score at 75-75 in the overtime, Australia found their rhythm to break through China's defense to lead the game at 79-75 with 22 seconds to go.

A three pointer from Hollie Grima sealed the win for the Olympic silver medallists and put them to the first place of the tournament.

Australia, who were shocked by Russia on Saturday in an overtime loss, began to find their pace in the second half, using solid defense to stop China's attacking and put ahead by 48-40 mid into the third quarter.

China used a 14-10 run to close the gap and both sides battled for 52-54 to enter the fourth quarter.

Chen Nan led the hosts with 19 points and seven rebounds, while Ye Li contributed 18 points and seven rebounds, point guard Chen Xiaoyun added 12 points and five rebounds.

Australia's Carly Wilson and Hollie Grima netted their team-high 22 points apiece, while veteran Jacinta Hamilton score 20 points and Erin Phillips added nine.

The tournament features four teams, namely China, Russia, Australia and Cuba.

(Agencies)