The Iranians overcame Philippines in the semi-final, in what was a repeat of last year's Asian Basketball Championship decider, while Chinese Taipei defeated hosts China to set up today's clash.

Hamed Hadadi, the first Iranian ever to play in the National Basketball Association, was once again the star man as he scored 21 points and registered eight rebounds.

He was ably assisted by Mohammad Jamshidi who sunk 20 points, while 14 points and 14 rebounds from Arsalan Kazemi also contributed to an 89-79 win.

Chinese Taipei had kept it close throughout against their more illustrious opponents, led by centre Quincy Davis who registered 19 points and 12 rebounds.

Only one point separated the sides near the end of the third quarter, but Iran's greater experience and know-how told during the final period as they managed to do enough to secure victory.

"We achieved two things today," said Iran coach Memi Becirovic.

"We did a lot of new things, but we also had control of the scoreboard.

"We have been trying out various things with our guards.

"None of these guys were starting guards in our main team.

"In fact, I'm very happy the way they worked.

"It wasn't perfect, but it was never meant to be.

"We aimed to make progress and we achieved that."

Hamed Hadadi was the main man for Iran again as they overpowered Chinese Taipei ©AFP/Getty Images



In the bronze medal match, Philippines rebounded from their thrashing by Iran to defeat China by a single point, 80-79.

Philippines head coach Chot Reyes was pleased with his side's overall performance in Wuhan as attention now turns to the FIBA World Cup in Spain.

"We came in using this event as a platform to launch our preparations for the World Cup," said Reyes.

"But I'm certainly not complaining about the bronze medal."

Both Iran and Philippines will be Asia's representatives when the action gets underway in Spain, having secured their spots at last year's Asian Basketball Championships.

Iran will be based in Granada, where they have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Spain, two-time world champions Serbia, reigning European champions France as well as Brazil and Egypt.

Philippines have been drawn in Group B and will take on Argentina, Croatia, Greece, Puerto Rico and Senegal at Palacio Municipal de Deportes in Seville.

The 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup is due to take place from August 30 to September 14.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related Stories
August 2013: Iran secure 2013 Asian basketball Championship victory over hosts in Manila