The defending champions were pushed all the way by their Australian opponents, but managed to prevail at the Kanteerava Indoor Stadium in the Indian city.

Saki Mizushima was the star of the show for Japan as she scored 26 points in a stirring display.

Mizushima, who had a combined personal total of 18 points from her previous four matches at the tournament, found the net with a three-point attempt to break the 71-71 deadlock late on, which proved crucial to her side's success.

Before Mizushima converted a three-pointer, Australia had the momentum after clawing back a four-point deficit to level proceedings thanks to baskets from Belinda Snell and Marianna Tolo.

Australia's Kelsey Griffin was the top scorer in the gold medal encounter as she managed a tally of 30 points, but it proved to be in vain as Japan held on for a dramatic victory.

Their win saw them hold on to the FIBA Women's Asia Cup crown, which they have held since winning the biennial event in 2013.

Australia were made to rue a missed opportunity as they had led by as many as 10 points in the first half.

They made it to the half-time interval 39-33 in front, but Japan fought back after the break.

A dominant third quarter from Japan, where they outscored their opponents 26-14 to move 59-53 in front going into the final stanza.

Australia edged their Japanese rival in the fourth quarter, but it was not enough to undo the damage of the third.

China claimed the bronze medal as they comfortably beat South Korea 75-51 in the third place playoff.