SHENZHEN (China) - The FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2025 Division B is more than just a competition - it’s a proving ground. From July 13-20, eight national teams will converge in Shenzhen, China, each with a unique story but a shared goal: earn that single golden ticket to Division A.
The stakes couldn't be higher. Only one team will move up to the elite level in the next cycle. For some, it's about reclaiming lost status. For others, it's about announcing themselves on the continental stage for the very first time.
Here are the teams who have never made it to Division A and are determined to get there this time.
Iran
Iran came within inches of history in 2023, falling in the Division B Final by just one point to Indonesia. It was a heartbreaking end, but also a campaign that earned them respect. If they can bring back the core from 2023 in this year's lineup, Iran will be one of the most motivated squads in Shenzhen. They've already proven they can beat top-tier Division B teams - now they just need to go one step further.
Mongolia
Mongolia's debut in 2023 may have started slow, but it ended with a bang - an 80-41 win over Sri Lanka marked their first-ever Women’s Asia Cup victory. With a foundation built on youth development and a hunger to succeed for the pride of their nation, Mongolia's rapid rise in Asian basketball is no fluke. Expect them to be better, stronger, and even more cohesive this time around.
Tahiti
History will be made in Shenzhen, as Tahiti make their Women's Asia Cup debuts. Tahiti booked their spot after winning the 2023 Pacific Games Final against Cook Islands (53-46).
Cook Islands
It will be double history making for these Pacific Islands nations as Cook Islands will also be making their debuts. This marks the first time Oceania representatives outside of Australia and New Zealand have appeared since Fiji in 2017. Though Cook Islands lost to Tahiti in the Pacific Games Final, they had previously beaten them 62-44 in group play.
While these two island nations may be considered underdogs, their participation is a massive win for Oceania basketball and a sign of growth beyond the traditional powers.
The Stakes
The format is simple but brutal: only the winners of the Final gets promoted to Division A.
Shenzhen is about to witness the fire of ambition, the weight of history, and the birth of new rivalries. The FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2025 Division B is ready for takeoff.
FIBA