FIBA Asia mourns the passing of former Board Member Mahmoud Mashhoun

BEIRUT (Lebanon) – It is with great sadness that FIBA Asia learned of the passing of Mr. Mahmoud Mashhoun, a former FIBA Asia Board member, President of the Iran Basketball Federation, and President of the West Asia Basketball Association (WABA). He was 82 years old.

Mr. Mashhoun served as President of the Iranian Basketball Federation (IRIBF) from 2002 to 2017, during which time the Iran men's national team rose to prominence in Asia. This includes winning FIBA Asia Cups in 2007, 2009, and 2013, making their first appearance at the FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2010, which they have yet to miss since, and returning to the Olympic Games for the first time in 60 years in 2008. 

The group of players that emerged during that era under Mashhoun’s presidency is widely considered the “Golden Generation” of Iranian basketball, including the likes of Asian basketball legends like Hamed Haddadi, Samad Nikkah Bahrami, Mehdi Kamrani, and Oshin Sahakian, among others.

FIBA Executive Director - Asia Hagop Khajirian said: "My thoughts and condolences are extended to his family and the Basketball Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran. 

"He was a prominent figure in the world of basketball and has significantly impacted the sport through his influential roles as a FIBA Asia Board member and President of both IRIBF and WABA. His commitment to the sport inspired countless individuals, fostering a community of passionate players, coaches, and supporters."

In memory of Mr. Mashhoun, a minute of silence will be held at all FIBA West Asia Super League games this week.

On behalf of FIBA Asia, we extend our deepest condolences to Iran Basketball Federation (IRIBF) and his family in these trying times.

FIBA