Bahrami's return inspires resurgent Iran to successful second window

TEHRAN (FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Asian Qualifiers) – In the first window of the Asian Qualifiers last November, Iran was stunned by Iraq in Amman.

The 74-66 result triggered wild celebrations from the Iraq players and their fans at the Prince Hamza Arena and left the fancied Iran with much to ponder. They were without key players Samad Nikkhah Bahrami, Hamed Haddadi and Behnam Yakhchali but the shock upset led to outrage back home.

Iranian fans were highly disappointed that their proud basketball team had suffered such a letdown against the upstart Iraq. Even though they rebounded against Qatar, it was still a disappointing first window for Iran and cause for concern.

In recent times, Iran had favored a youth policy after a golden generation culminated in Asian titles and an appearance at the 2008 Olympics. Last month, Iran Basketball Federation elected new president Ramin Tabatabaei and he supported the push for veterans to return to the fold – most notably 34-year-old Bahrami and Haddadi. 

In the second window, Iran looked far more confident and polished with iconic forward Bahrami back in the mix alongside Haddadi. In Astana on Thursday, Iran easily beat previously undefeated Kazakhstan 75-54 with Bahrami immediately making his presence felt with a stellar 20 points and 8 assists in a game-high 37 minutes.

In the re-match against Iraq, Bahrami once again showed his class with 16 points - including a trio of three-pointers - 7 assists and 4 rebounds as Iran gained sweet revenge with a comprehensive 83-53 victory to ensure their passionate fans had plenty to cheer about.

Haddadi too was a force starring with 20 points and 20 rebounds against Kazakhstan, and 18 points and 9 rebounds versus Iraq. 

Their command of the court has been eye-catching, while Bahrami has added necessary punch off the wing to ensure Iran now boasts impressive scoring firepower. With the inclusions of the veterans, there is a better blend of experience and youth in Iran’s line-up and one they can build upon.

Bahrami said he enjoyed playing for his country in front of the energetic Iranian crowd. “It was a great game for me to play in Iran in front of our fans is...it’s something unexplainable,” he said. “I am proud to play for the national team and now I’m so happy to have this chance to play in my home.”

The victory completed a successful second window for Iran, who have risen to the top of Group D with a 3-1 record and the disappointment of losing to Iraq has now disappeared. Bahrami said it was satisfying to defeat Iraq after the heartbreak in November.

“We wanted to beat Iraq, and that’s what we exactly did,” he said. “I want to say thanks to my great teammates and our fans.”

Spurred by the experience, composure and class of Bahrami, Iran are on the cusp of making it to the second round but will need to take care of business in the third window when they travel to Qatar and host Kazakhstan mid-year.

With their inspirational veterans once again leading the charge, Iran appears a force to be reckoned with.

 FIBA