Asia Cup 2025: India's Qualification Chances Boosted after Kazakh Win
On Monday, India posted an emphatic 88-69 win over Kazakhstan in Chennai, launching it to third-position in Group E
Chennai, 27 November 2024: The Indian men’s basketball team finally got its first win in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers, with an emphatic 88-69 victory over Kazakhstan.
While multiple mainstream platforms - including FIBA.com - are reporting that this is the men’s team’s first win over Kazakhstan in 27 years, India has beaten Kazakhstan more recently. In the 2016 FIBA Asia Challenge, India posted a 100-90 scoreline against the same opponents. FIBA, however, is not considering this event, as it is now defunct.
Second-Half Surge Propels India to Victory
Pranav Prince’s leadership was on full display as he tied with Kanwar Singh for a team-high 17 points while contributing across the board with 8 assists, 6 rebounds, and 5 steals.
India trailed 9-18 after the first quarter but responded with a dominant 28-15 second quarter, sparked by Kanwar Gurbaz Singh Sandhu’s three consecutive three-pointers in just over two minutes. This momentum carried into the second half, where Baladhaneshwar’s energy off the bench played a pivotal role in sustaining India’s lead, he contributed 7 rebounds and 6 assists off the bench, changing the game’s tempo.
"Our culture is changing, and we're building a group that gets along well. We've worked hard, and it's rewarding to see the results," Head Coach Scott Fleming said in the post-game press conference.
Breaking the Losing Streak
India (Kanwar Singh & Pranav Prince 17 pts, Muin Bek & Baladhaneshwar 7 ast, Pranav Prince 8 reb, 5 stl) bt Kazakhstan (Vladimir Ivanov 17 pts & 10 reb, Rustam Murzagaliyev 7 ast, Vladimir Ivanov 3 blk) 88-69 [9-18, 28-15, 26-18, 25-18]
Enthusiastic Home Support
The electric crowd in Chennai stood firmly behind the team, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Nehru Indoor Stadium buzzed with energy as fans cheered every basket and defensive stop.
Tamil Nadu’s capital, hosting its first major international basketball event since 2009, proved its passion for the game.
The Road Ahead: A Test of Grit
The team got the victory they were aiming for, so what's next for the Young Cagers?
The win moved India to third place, but qualification depends on how well the team performs in both tough away games in February 2025.
Facing Iran on February 21 2025, a victory would be crucial for momentum, while the February 24 2025 rematch against Qatar offers a shot at redemption after their earlier loss. Both games will test India’s grit and resolve.
Next Game for India:
vs Iran on February 21, 2025 (Time TBD)
How to Watch?
Live streaming: FIBA YouTube Channel
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