India took a giant leap toward securing a spot in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 with a commanding 97-77 victory over Iraq in the Asian Cup Qualifier Round 2 opener at Khalifa Sports City.
Displaying excellent shooting and teamwork, the Indian men’s basketball team seized control after a competitive first quarter and never looked back.
This victory puts India in a prime position to qualify, as the top two teams from Group H will advance to the Asia Cup 2025 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
With just one more win needed against Bahrain, India is on the verge of sealing its 11th consecutive appearance in the prestigious tournament.
A Game of Two Halves: India’s Breakaway in the Third Quarter
The game began at a rapid pace, with both teams locked at 30-30 after the first quarter. India’s offense was clicking early, but Iraq managed to keep up with their own scoring. However, the momentum shifted in the second quarter.
India tightened its defense, holding Iraq to just 8 points while adding 14 of their own to take a 44-38 lead at halftime. The defensive intensity, coupled with accurate three-point shooting, set the stage for a dominant second half.
The turning point came in the third quarter when Pranav Prince, Palpreet Singh Brar, and Muin Hafeez led a blistering 10-2 run, extending India’s lead to 54-40. India erupted for 32 points in the quarter while limiting Iraq to just 19, effectively sealing the outcome with a 76-57 lead entering the final frame.
Despite Iraq’s attempts to fight back, India’s balanced scoring attack ensured they maintained control, securing a convincing 20-point win.
Muin Hafeez Leads the Charge
India’s Muin Bek Hafeez was the standout performer, scoring 17 points, including five three-pointers, while also grabbing six rebounds. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting played a crucial role in India’s offensive dominance.
Other key contributors:
• Pranav Prince nearly secured a double-double with 12 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists.
• Harsh Dagar provided a scoring punch with 13 points, 6 assists, and three three-pointers.
• Arvind Krishnan was perfect from beyond the arc (4/4), finishing with 12 points.
• Palpreet Singh Brar (11 points) and Arvinder Singh (10 points) added valuable contributions off the bench.
India’s offensive success was fueled by 16 made three-pointers, continuing their trend of using outside shooting as a lethal weapon—just like they did in their win over Kazakhstan in November, where they drained 15 threes.
Coach Scott Flemming’s Tactical Brilliance
Under head coach Scott Flemming, India executed a well-structured offensive game plan, finishing with an impressive 52.1% shooting percentage. The team’s 22 assists highlighted their unselfish play, with 10 different players contributing to the scoreboard.
This game was also a significant moment for India as they defeated former head coach Veselin Matic, who now leads Iraq.
One Win Away: A Clash with Bahrain Awaits
India now faces Bahrain in their final Group H match, with a chance to officially secure their Asia Cup berth. However, history is not on India’s side, as they have lost their last three encounters (0-3) against Bahrain.
Bahrain presents a tougher challenge, but if India continues their strong defensive effort and hot three-point shooting, they have a great chance to end the losing streak and punch their ticket to FIBA Asia Cup 2025.
A Step Toward the Asia Cup Dream
India’s victory over Iraq showcased their growing confidence and depth, proving that they belong among Asia’s top basketball nations. With one more hurdle to cross, Indian basketball fans will be hoping their team completes the job against Bahrain and books their place in Jeddah this August.
A strong showing in the Asia Cup 2025 could also lead to an exciting potential matchup against New Zealand’s Tall Blacks, where some Indian players are already making an impact in the New Zealand NBL.
For now, India’s focus remains on Bahrain, as they look to complete their mission and officially confirm their spot in FIBA Asia Cup 2025.
