BEIRUT (FIBA Asia Cup 2017) - One by one, Asia's best national teams arrived in the Lebanese capital as the dawn of the first ever Asia Cup of its kind draws closer.

2015 champions China were the first to land, no doubt raring to defend their title and serve notice that they can still win even without twin towers Yi Jianlian and Zhou Qi.

East Asia hopefuls Hong Kong also checked in. They aren't the biggest or deepest team, but nobody should overlook such a gritty squad.

Asia Cup newcomers New Zealand were welcomed with big smiles shortly after touching down at Rafic Hariri International Airport. They are expected to contend for a podium finish.

Three-time champions and Lebanon's strong West Asia rivals Iran are eager to make a big splash at the Asia Cup!

Asia Cup debutante Matthew Wright makes it clear - Gilas Pilipinas haven't landed in Beirut just to be tourists. They are here to win.

Korean three-point artists Lee JungHyun and Jeon JunBeom are excited to get things going in Group C! They square off with the hosts tomorrow!

Team Kazakhstan are enjoying themselves amidst some downtime before they plunge into competition on Day 1.

The Qataris arrive with their new naturalized player Sammy Monroe. Al Annabi are aiming for a return to glory this year behind Monroe, Mizo Amin, Abdulrahman Saad and returning veterans.

Jason Cadee and the rest of the Australia Boomers have already quietly been practicing in Beirut. They are heavy favorites to win it all. 

It's a warm welcome for Lebanon's WABA neighbors and long-time rivals, Jordan! Al Nashama are hoping to build on their top 3 finish last year at the Asia Challenge.

Action kicks off tomorrow with Group C teams Kazakhstan and New Zealand opening hostilities. Catch up on all the latest news and social media posts throughout the tournament by using the tag #FIBAAsiaCup2017 and by following our live updates each day!

FIBA