FIBA Asia Championship: Iran 86 – 48 Japan

The Filipinos started the game strong, leading by as many as 16 points in the first quarter, but their guard dropped in the second period allowing Palestine to creep back into the match. In contrast, India managed a paltry 14 points from the bench.

Coming off a disappointing first-up performance against Iran, Japan quickly jumped out to a lead against its overmatched Malaysian opponent, starting the game with a 17-2 run that established the tone.

It was Malaysia’s second defeat in Group A, losing 73-102 to India in their opening match on Wednesday. India failed to offset this as they shot just 5-of-16 from beyond the arc and 9-of-16 from the free throw line. The first was their fabulous opening quarter lead of 27-11, which forced India to play catch-up for the rest of the game.

Two years ago in Manila, Malaysia lost to Iran, South Korea and China by an average point difference of 70 in the first round before going down to Thailand in a playoff to finish last of 15 teams.

The Indian team, who will be captained by the experienced Vishesh Bhriguvanshi, boasts a strong attacking line-up that includes talented young forwards Amjyot Singh and Amritpal Singh. India suffered a blow near the end of the half when Amritpal Singh was fouled out after committing his 5th foul near the buzzer.

The Palestinians kept close throughout, finally taking the lead in the fourth quarter.

India’s third and final preliminary round game will be against Japan on Friday. M. Nik Khahbahrami brought Iran their 50th point with a three-pointer in the 24th minute.

Despite being placed in a tough group, Bhriguvanshi asserted that the Indians are determined to give a tough fight to their opponents.

Iran secured their second win by beating India 88-66. His absence allowed Iran to wrest control.