FIBA Asia Cup: last eight complete
The quarterfinal of the FIBA Asia Cup 2017 has been set, with the final four teams completing the picture on Tuesday. Iran, the Philippines, New Zealand, and Australia had already qualified for the last eight as group winners. They are now joined by China, South Korea, Jordan, and Lebanon after those nations progressed after today’s play-off.
Jordan vs. Iraq, 84-70
Jordan outclassed Iraq with a strong second-half performance. Through halftime, the Jordanians led 38-37 and used the momentum by pouring in 46 points in the second half. Iraq could not keep pace and wilted in the third act, allowing Jordan a clear run at victory. Amin Abuhawwas and Mahmoud Abdeen scored 18 apiece in the win, with Abdeen also adding 10 assists. Mohammad Hussein also doubled up in victory, grabbing 15 points and 15 rebounds.
China vs. Syria, 81-79
China’s patchy form continued in the FIBA Asia Cup 2017 as the team struggled past Syria. Still, the winningest team in tournament history make the quarters, and you must be in it to win it. Make no mistake, China remains a threat to the title. Syria led 41-49 through the long break, but China fought back and took the win with a huge 25-11 run in the fourth act. Gen Li led the win with 19 points from the bench.
Lebanon vs. Taiwan, 90-77
Lebanon looked too strong for Taiwan and controlled large parts of the game as they swept into the quarterfinals. The winners got the job done in the first half, scoring an impressive 54 points in an offensive display that Taiwan struggled to contain. Despite losing the second half, the Lebanese contingent had too many points in the bank and eased to success. Fadi El-Khatib looked impressive with 30 points, 7 boards, and 4 scoring passes. He is considered to be one of the best basketball players from Asia & Oceania of all times.
Japan vs. South Korea, 68-81
South Korea picked apart Japan on its way to the last 8, securing a comfortable victory. However, it was the Japanese who led through the long break, heading in with a 41-39 lead. South Korea turned the tide in the third act, before dropping 24 points to Japan’s 12 points in the decider. Sun-Hyung Kim and Sek-Eun Oh drained 16 points each in the winning effort.