The Australian Opals have closed their six-game European tour with a thrilling four-point overtime loss to Turkey in Istanbul.
Australia had been in untouchable form heading into the TBF Zafer Cup, but lost twice in three games to raise some concerns ahead of next month's World Championship, also hosted by Istanbul.
After bouncing back from a loss to Canada with a rousing victory over Brazil, Australia again tasted defeat - this time at the hands of their hosts, who triumphed 84-80 in overtime.
Australia led at every break, and owned an 11-point advantage heading into the fourth quarter, but needed something special to send the game to extra time.
Star American-born point guard Leilani Mitchell delivered on that front, burying a tough corner three, en route to 14 points, to tie the scores at 70-all at the end of regulation.
But despite the best efforts of Mitchell, as well as veteran guard Rachel Jarry who had an international career-high 23 points, and Laura Hodges (15 points), Australia were outgunned late by a determined outfit spurred on by a raucous home crowd.
The result leaves Australia with a 4-2 record from their Euro tour, which included a two-game sweep of Belarus.
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