JEDDAH (Saudi Arabia) – The FIBA Asia Cup is often about moments, and Iraq need theirs now.
For veteran guard Demario Mayfield, this is his first taste of the Asia Cup, though he has worn Iraq’s colors since 2019. His resume has been built on steady production and leadership, averaging 10 points, 4.5 assists, 2.5 rebounds and a steal so far. However, with the tournament on the line, the 34-year-old knows he still has to deliver a signature performance.
As for 21-year-old forward Abdullah Hayder Alibraheemi, the stage is both new and natural. In his first Asia Cup, he has emerged as Iraq’s most productive player, leading the team in scoring (13.5), rebounds (7.0), blocks (1.5) and efficiency (19.5). He will turn 22 next week, but already looks like the cornerstone of the national team’s future.
That said, Day 5 offers no safety nets. Winless Iraq face similarly hard-luck Philippines in Group D action at the King Abdullah Sports City. The stakes are simple: the winners move on to the Qualification to the Quarter-Finals, the losers pack their bags.
Coach Veselin Matic knows both Mayfield and Alibraheemi must be at their best against a side featuring Justin Brownlee and AJ Edu.
"For Iraq, we have to change something," Matic said after their last loss. "That is game by game. We have to support the players who qualified us for here and also give chances to the young ones."
Alibraheemi hopes to carry the lessons forward.
"We didn’t play the right way (against Chinese Taipei)," he admitted. "I hope we will do better in the next game."
Mayfield, the steadying voice, believes the group’s experience will matter.
"Every team is here for a reason," he said. "We’re expecting to fight hard every game. I have full confidence in my teammates."
Two players, two different paths, one common goal: extend Iraq’s journey in Jeddah.
FIBA