Iran and Philippines rule Day 1 of Qualifying Draw at FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2019

22 May 2019

CHANGSHA (FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup) - Iran's men and the Philippines' women started their journey at the 3x3 Asia Cup 2019 undefeated in Changsha, China on May 22. 

In the men's category, Iran started with a bang with two wins on opening day over Thailand (21-6) and Samoa (21-9). Still they trail an equally undefeated Qatar, who scored the same amount of points but rank 1st based on seeding number. Their match-up tomorrow will decide who advances to Pool B of the Main Draw. 

 


There were high expectations for Team Philippines, including 3x3 rising star Ricci Rivero. However the 20-year-old-went down with an ankle injury a few minutes into the 1st game and his participation on Day 2 is now up in the air.

South Korea and India also are undefeated in Pool B. The winners of their meeting tomorrow will advance to Pool C. in the main draw. Chinese Taipei, who won their two games in Pool C - including a 21-18 thriller against Vietnam - are just one win away from a main draw ticket in Pool D.

In the women's side, The Philippines were dominant on their first game against Samoa (21-1) and then, defeated Chinese Taipei (16-13) to book their ticket to the Main Draw. Samoa avenged their early loss with a historic 1st-ever Asia Cup win against Vanuatu (18-15). In the other pool, India and Thailand are tied in 1st place and their match-up tomorrow will decide who advances to the Main Draw. 

 

FIBA