JEDDAH (Saudi Arabia) – Few stages in Asian basketball offer the drama and intensity quite like the FIBA Asia Cup Final. From last-second heartbreaks to breakout performances that shift the balance of power, the title matchups have seen some of the most unforgettable moments in the game.
As we move closer to another edition of this continental classic, here’s a look back at five of the greatest FIBA Asia Cup Finals of the 21st century, where history was made, dynasties were shaken and legends were born. These games are presented in order from the most recent to the earliest.
2022 Final: Australia v Lebanon (Jakarta)
In 2022, Lebanon roared back into the FIBA Asia Cup spotlight, taking on the powerhouse Boomers in a showdown that went down to the final possession. Wael Arakji, the eventual tournament MVP, dazzled all night long, tallying 28 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Meanwhile, Ali Haidar anchored the frontcourt with 23 points and 9 boards.
Australia’s depth and poise, however, proved decisive in crunch time. The Boomers held on, 75–73, to remain unbeaten in Asia Cup play and claim their second consecutive title. For Lebanon, it was a statement of resilience: a reminder of the Cedars’ never-say-die spirit and their ability to push the very best to the brink.
2017 Final: Australia v Iran (Zouk Mikael)
The 2017 Final marked a new chapter in the FIBA Asia Cup as Australia made their debut appearance. Taking on perennial contenders Iran, the Boomers showcased a mix of speed, strength and elite execution. After a close first quarter, Australia pulled away behind the dominant trio of Mitch Creek, Brad Newley and Daniel Kickert, turning the game into a decisive 79–56 victory.
It was a stunning introduction: a new team in the tournament, and a new level of excellence that would carry them to a spotless 12–0 record across the 2017 and 2022 editions.
2013 Final: Iran v Philippines (Manila)
The 2013 FIBA Asia Cup remains one of the most riveting in recent memory. With the tournament held in Manila, Gilas Pilipinas rode a wave of national pride all the way to the championship game, their first appearance in the Final since 1985.
The crowd was electric, but Team Melli was unshaken. Hamed Haddadi dominated on both ends, powering Iran to an 85–71 win and their third Asia Cup crown. Despite the loss, the backcourt tandem of Jimmy Alapag and Jayson Castro shone brightly, combining for 31 points and proving that the Philippines had reclaimed their place among Asia’s elite.
2011 Final: China v Jordan (Wuhan)
This game was a masterclass in resilience. Playing in front of a home crowd in Wuhan, China faced a fearless Jordanian squad that led 36–31 at halftime. The tension grew with every possession as China clawed back, leaning on the brilliant play of Yi Jianlian, who finished with 25 points and 16 rebounds.
In the dying moments, China finally surged ahead, holding on for a dramatic 70–69 victory. The win signaled a return to glory for China after Iran’s dominance in 2007 and 2009, and reaffirmed their reputation as the gold standard in Asian basketball.
2009 Final: Iran v China (Tianjin)
This was the game that confirmed Iran’s place at the top of the Asian basketball hierarchy. Facing an energetic crowd in Tianjin, Hamed Haddadi put on an absolute masterclass with 19 points, 17 rebounds and a commanding defensive presence.
From the opening tip, Iran seized control, holding China in check while limiting Yi Jianlian to just 11 points on 5-of-16 shooting. Wang Zhizhi had a strong outing with 24 points and 8 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough as Team Melli cruised to a 70–52 victory. This landmark win gave Iran their second straight title and broke China’s streak of home dominance.
2007 Final: Iran v Lebanon (Tokushima)
The 2007 Final was a turning point for the continent. Up against a strong Lebanon side, Iran stormed to their first-ever Asia Cup title with a gritty 74–69 win. Hamed Haddadi was the unstoppable force of the game, delivering 31 points and 10 rebounds on 14-of-18 shooting.
His performance not only lifted Iran to victory but also signaled the beginning of a new era where Team Melli would become one of Asia’s most feared teams for years to come.
From heart-stopping comebacks to breakout performances, the FIBA Asia Cup Final has been the ultimate showcase of elite competition and regional pride. These unforgettable games remind us that in Asian basketball, it’s never just about the score. It’s about the moments that define championship eras.
DISCLAIMER: These selections are entirely based on personal perspective and do not reflect any official criteria or evaluation. All views expressed are the author’s own.
FIBA