Malaysia women's basketball team wins SEA Games gold

The national women's basketball team continued their winning streak to bag the ultimate prize today, gold at the SEA Games.

The team beat Thailand at the finals, coming up from behind to end the game at 65-60.

In the final quarter, Malaysia drew the score at 60-60 after team captain Nur Izzati Yaakob netted two free throws.

Chong Yin Yin then scored another two points from free throws, followed by a three-point foul-in by Eugene Ting who sealed the win for Malaysia.

Coach Yoong Sze Yuin attributed the win to a strong defence from the team.

"I'm very proud of all the players who have given it their all and won the gold for Malaysia one more time," Yoong told reporters after the match.

The Malaysian women’s basketball team had previously won gold at the last SEA Games in Singapore in 2015.

Asked what her secret to success was, the coach replied: "Practice hard and play together as a team." 

Meanwhile, Nur Izzati expressed her happiness that their hard work had paid off with a victory in front of a home crowd.

"The match was really tough. At the start we had trouble controlling the court, and at half-time, there was some nervousness. This win is thanks to our strong defence," the captain said.

As for Ting, she said the key to overcoming her opponent was to remain calm and focused.

"In front of your own supporters, especially your family and friends, you have to do your best," she said. - Mkini