Russia upended host China 90-79 to win the Shanghai Baoshan International Women's Basketball Tournament at the Baocheng Stadium.

In an earlier match, the Czech Republic edged Australia 70-66.

Both, the Czech Republic and Russia posted two victories to one defeat at the four-nation tournament but Russia edged ahead thanks to its 60-55 victory over the Czechs on Saturday.

Also on Saturday, China notched up its only victory at the three-day event, beating Australia 86-71, to finish third.

China may have been hoping for a better finish after emerging from the first half a mere two points behind Russia (41-43). The 1.97-meter center Chen Nan dominated in the paint, collecting a game-high 24 points and bagging six rebounds.

But too many turnovers and a stretched defense outside the three-point zone took its toll on the hosts in the second half.

Russia, led by Natalia Vodopyanova (19 points, five rebounds), extended its lead to a maximum 17 points (88-71) with less than two minutes in the fourth quarter.

China raised hopes of a rally with a 8-0 run, including two successive 3's from Reng Lei, but ran out of time.

(Shanghai Daily July 3, 2006)