AMMAN (Jordan) - Syria's FIBA Basketball World Cup dream is alive and well. Powered by a sensational outing from Donte Lamont McGill and a composed finish in crunch time, the Syrians defeated Iraq 91-81 on Thursday to secure qualification for the Second Round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.
McGill erupted for 27 points, including five triples, leading the way for Syria, which had to rebuild their lead after Iraq had cut the deficit to just three points late in the fourth quarter. The victory sent the Syrians through with one game to spare.
Veteran Mohamad Bilal Atli also impressed for Syria with 11 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 blocks and 1 steal. Syria survived a spirited effort from Iraqi rising star Zinar Hishyar Selman Alyousif, who tallied 16 points and 7 assists in the loss.
Syria are looking forward to qualify for their first-ever FIBA Basketball World Cup.
World Cup Pedigree
SYRIA
Number of participations: 0
Last participation: N/A
Best finish: N/A
Past Qualifiers
Edition | Record |
2023 | 1-5 (4th in Group D - First Round) |
2019 | 2-10 (6th in Group E - Second Round) |
Who will they face in the Second Round?
The top three teams from Group A and Group C will form Group E in the Second Round, carrying over all results from the First Round.
Group A |
|
|---|---|
Qualified | Australia, Philippines, New Zealand |
In contention |
|
Eliminated | Guam |
Group C |
|
|---|---|
Qualified | Jordan, Iran, Syria |
In contention |
|
Eliminated | Iraq |
FIBA