SHENZHEN (China) – The FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025 Division B continued to display great action on Tuesday at the Shenzhen Sports Center, with Iran asserting their dominance against Mongolia.
Iran outmuscle Mongolia in Day 3 opener
The day’s action started with a pivotal Group B clash as Iran blew past Mongolia, 89-55. Both teams entered with unbeaten records, but it was Iran’s three-point shooting and defensive intensity that ultimately made the difference. Iran hit six triples in the first eight minutes to erect a 25-6 lead that they never relinquished. Mongolia battled valiantly, but Iran’s Roxanna Barahman and Negin Rasoulipour Khameneh controlled the tempo for much of the contest to secure the win. This victory places Iran firmly atop Group B, while Mongolia face a crucial test to stay in contention.
Rasoulipour Khameneh led Iran with 20 points, while Barahman added 15. Khulan Onolbaatar and Tsatsral Bayarmaa top-scored for Mongolia with 10 points each.
Thailand bounce back with convincing win over Cook Islands
In the second game, Thailand responded to their Day 2 setback with an authoritative 81-55 victory against Cook Islands. It took an entire half before the Thais could ensure separation against the resilient Cook Islanders, but their balanced scoring eventually overwhelmed coach Aik Ho's unit. Rattiyakorn Udomsuk continued to lead Thailand’s charge, showcasing why she’s one of the division's top scorers. For Cook Islands, still searching for their first win, the loss highlights areas for growth as the competition intensifies.
Udomsuk had 20 points for Thailand, who also drew 13 points from Rujiwan Bunsinprom. Terai Sadler paced Cook Islands with 18 points.
Chinese Taipei extend Group A dominance against Kazakhstan
Closing the day’s action, Chinese Taipei reinforced their status as Group A favorites with a commanding 91-47 victory over Kazakhstan. After a competitive first half, Chinese Taipei pulled away in the third period thanks to their sharp shooting and tenacious defense, preventing Kazakhstan from scoring for thr first seven minutes after the break. Huang Hisang-Ting and her teammates showcased their depth and precision, maintaining their perfect 3-0 record and setting the pace for the group. Kazakhstan fall to 1-2 but remain in the hunt for qualification.
Chinese Taipei were carried by Huang's 11-point, 10-rebound double-double, while Han Ya-En dropped 16 points. As for Kazakhstan, they were led by Nadezhda Yakovleva's 12 points.
With Iran and Chinese Taipei asserting their dominance in their respective groups, and Thailand’s resurgence injecting fresh energy into Group B, the battle for promotion is intensifying. Mongolia and Kazakhstan will look to rebound quickly, while Cook Islands continue their quest for a breakthrough win.
FIBA