JEDDAH (Saudi Arabia) – Guam’s debut in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 has already made history. Not only have they reached the Final Phase in their debut appearance, but they have done so while battling a short-handed rotation, with currently just nine healthy players in uniform. Their next challenge, however, is the ultimate uphill climb, which is a Qualification to Quarter-Finals clash against two-time champions Korea.
Korea enter this game brimming with confidence after a statement 22-three-pointer performance to defeat Lebanon and secure second place in Group A. Their 2-1 record also includes a solid win over Qatar after opening with a loss to defending champions Australia. Guam, for their part, took third place in Group B with a 1-2 slate, highlighted by a gritty victory over Syria in between losses to Iran and Japan.
Key matchup: Lee HyunJung vs Earnest Ross Jr.
Few players in Jeddah have been as lights-out as Lee HyunJung was against Lebanon, draining seven triples while stretching the floor with his smooth shooting and all-around offensive versatility. He will be a constant threat that Guam must track on every possession. Matching him shot for shot will likely fall on Earnest Ross Jr., Guam’s veteran swingman. He stuffed the stat sheet over his last two games with 17.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 2.5 steals and 2.5 triples. If Ross can keep pace and force Lee to expend energy on defense, Guam’s chances improve.
X-Factor: Jonathan Galloway
Guam’s anchor in the middle has yet to find his best form in Jeddah. After averaging close to a double-double in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers, Jonathan Galloway is down to 6.3 points and 6.3 rebounds per game while shooting under 47% from the field. Against Korea’s disciplined frontcourt, Galloway will need to rediscover his dominance on the boards and inside scoring touch to improve Guam's odds.
Stats don’t lie
Korea’s offensive fireworks grab attention, but their defense has been just as impressive. They are among the tournament leaders in steals with 9.0 per game, boasting four players averaging at least 1.5 each. Quick hands and active pressure fuel their transition game, and if Guam cannot take care of the basketball, Korea could break the game open early.
Previous Asia Cup meetings
This will be the first FIBA Asia Cup encounter between Korea and Guam, and what a stage for it. The stakes could not be higher: win and move on to face China in the Quarter-Finals, or see the dream end here.
It’s a textbook David vs. Goliath scenario, but Guam have already shown they can punch above their weight. For Korea, the mission is clear, avoid the upset and keep the chase for a third FIBA Asia Cup crown alive.
FIBA