Iran takes 2014 FIBA Asia Cup crown

Wuhan, China – Iran has come out victorious in the 5th FIBA Asia Cup. They defeated Chinese Taipei, 89-79. The Philippine team took home the bronze medal after a tightly contested battle against cup hosts China, 80-79. This is Iran’s second regional championship in less than a year. They also won the 2013 FIBA Asia Championships and are the favorites to be the Asian team to go the farthest in the FIBA World Cup this August.

Chinese Taipei kept the game close all throughout the contest and kept Iran’s lead within reach. Chinese Taipei trailed all game and could not manage to wrench control from the eventual victors. Iran’s win came on the efforts of former NBA center Hamed Haddadi, who finished the game with 21 points and eight rebounds. Up and coming teammate Mohammed Jamshidi added 20 points of his own. Chinese Taipei was led by big man Quincy Davis who scored 19 points. Ray Chen added 16.

The bronze medal game between the Philippines and China went down the wire and beyond. Philippine guard Paul Lee drew a foul as he was attempting a three-point shot as the horn sounded. Lee knocked down all three pressure-filled shots at the line to seal the win for his team. Raniel de Ocampo was the top performer with the Philippines, scoring 18 points for the game. China was led by Makan Kelanbaike who finished with a game-high 23 points.