India’s remarkable journey at the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2025 came to an end in the quarterfinals, as they fell to a dominant New Zealand squad, 11-21.
Despite the defeat, this campaign was a major breakthrough for Indian basketball, as the team reached the quarterfinal stage after 12 long years.
The loss to New Zealand was disappointing, but India’s overall performance in the tournament showed significant progress. The team displayed aggression, skill, and composure, defeating multiple higher-ranked teams along the way.
This run has put Indian 3×3 basketball firmly on the map and provided hope for an even brighter future.
India’s Journey: A Tournament to Remember
India’s path to the quarterfinals was nothing short of sensational. The team produced stunning performances, upsetting several strong teams:
✅ Defeated South Korea 🇰🇷 21-11
✅ Defeated Macau 🇲🇴 21-06
✅ Defeated the Philippines 🇵🇭 21-11
✅ Defeated Chinese Taipei 🇹🇼 21-18
❌ Lost to China 🇨🇳 19-21 (Main Draw)
❌ Lost to New Zealand 🇳🇿 11-21 (Quarterfinals)
India started the tournament with dominant wins over South Korea, Macau, and the Philippines.
The team displayed quick ball movement, solid defense, and sharp shooting, especially from beyond the arc. Their hard-fought victory over Chinese Taipei (21-18) was a testament to their resilience and tactical execution.
However, against China (19-21), India fell just short in a nail-biting encounter, proving that they could compete with Asia’s elite. The loss forced India into a tough quarterfinal matchup against New Zealand, where their campaign eventually came to an end.
Quarterfinal: New Zealand Too Strong for India
In the quarterfinal clash against New Zealand, India held their own in the first two minutes, but the Kiwis’ relentless accuracy from beyond the arc turned the game into a one-sided affair.
🏀 Quarterfinal Result: India 🇮🇳 11-21 New Zealand 🇳🇿
New Zealand’s long-range shooting was the difference-maker, as India struggled to contest the deep shots. The physicality and experience of the New Zealand players also played a crucial role in controlling the tempo of the game.
Despite the loss, this historic run remains a massive step forward for Indian basketball.
What This Means for Indian Basketball
1️⃣ India’s Best FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup Performance in Over a Decade
India had not reached the quarterfinals since 2013, making this campaign a historic achievement.
2️⃣ Rising Confidence Against Higher-Ranked Teams
Wins against teams like South Korea, Philippines, and Chinese Taipei prove that India is no longer an easy opponent in international 3×3 basketball.
3️⃣ Time for a Proper Domestic 3×3 League?
With IPL and ISL transforming cricket and football, a structured 3×3 basketball league could develop and showcase India’s rising talent.
4️⃣ Senior Team on the Verge of a World Cup Breakthrough?
India’s junior teams have qualified for the FIBA 3×3 U18 World Cup four times, but the senior team has never qualified. If players like Harsh, Kushal, Prince, and Muthu continue to grow, India might soon make history by qualifying for the senior FIBA 3×3 World Cup.
The Road Ahead: Can India Build on This Success?
This FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup campaign has laid the foundation for future success. The players gained invaluable experience and proved that Indian basketball is on the rise. The next step is sustained improvement through:
🏀 More international exposure
🏀 A structured 3×3 league
🏀 Greater focus on shooting and defense
🏀 Increased investment in basketball infrastructure
While the quarterfinal exit stings, this was a giant leap forward for India’s 3×3 basketball program. If the momentum continues, the dream of qualifying for the FIBA 3×3 World Cup might not be far away.
Onwards and upwards, India! 🇮🇳🏀🔥
