NONTHABURI (FIBA Asia Cup 2021 SEABA Pre-Qualifier) - The first day of the FIBA Asia Cup 2021 SEABA Pre-qualifiers will be starting off with an exciting game, while the hosts look to get their groove growing to build momentum for bigger matches up ahead. Let’s get a feel of what might go down in Day One!

 Indonesia vs Malaysia

The first match of the day could also end up being a good one. In recent runs, Indonesia has fared better than Malaysia but both teams are stacked with talent that could produce fun match ups. Both teams are coming off international training camps as well with Indonesia wrapping up a two-week camp in the USA last week while Malaysia flew in directly from a pocket tournament in China.

Expect the teams to keep the pace down as they both don’t want to show too much of their hands in the very first game, but if the gap remains close towards the end they might have no choice but to speed things up.

Key Matchup: While the Ting Chun Hong/Abraham Grahita duel for top rising wing player is enticing, the more crucial battle should be in the front court between Kuek Tian Yuan and whoever among the rangy stretch forwards between Kevin Yonas Sitorus/Juan Laurent Kokodiputra/Jamarr Johnson will be matching up with him. If Kuek can get his offense going (and he really can), it could open up so many more options for Malaysia.

 Thailand vs Brunei

Thailand will be pitted against a relatively softer match up in their opener against Brunei. They will be well-prepared, playing on their home court, and in front of their home court which will give them an advantage over a Brunei team that is already trailing behind in experience. Look for Thailand to give their new recruits like Toby Tai Sathitsumpan and Tawatchai Suktub major minutes to build up their confidence.

It’s going to be a rough start for Brunei, but they seem to be a enthusiastic group that will be looking to soak in as much positive energy and experience as they can.

Key Matchup: As the leader of this Brunei team, it will be up to captain Benjamin Sim to keep his teammates engaged and encouraged against the atmosphere and the opposition. He won’t want to have them too discouraged, but they have to maintain their level of competitive as well. Same goes for Thailand’s veteran Darongphan Apiromvilaichai who will have to keep the young guns in check and leave no room for complacency.

 Cambodia vs Singapore

Coach Hsu of Singapore mentioned that his team has lacked time for preparation, so he should be pleased that they are fortunate to get Cambodia in their opening match up. Still, Singapore can’t let their guards down despite being much more experienced than the young Cambodia squad. The size difference from Delvin Goh and Lavin Raj will be there for Singapore, but they can not slack off to an upstart Cambodia team that might be looking to pounce early by surprise.

Key Matchup: Cambodia’s main man will certainly be Dominic Dar who has had time starring for them in the SEA Games. It would seem like a fun matchup if he went face-to-face with Singapore star Wong Wei Long, but it should be more expected for Singapore to put younger legs to perster Dar on defense. It’s more likely that Dar will have to get through Toh Qin Huang to get his points and if he can consistently do so, it might force Singapore to make some changes.

 FIBA