TEHRAN – While Iran basketball team boast a history of three Asian championships, those victories belong to a golden generation before the inclusion of formidable Oceanic teams like Australia and New Zealand in the competition.

Team Melli triumphed over New Zealand with a 79-73 victory in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 bronze medal match, held in Saudi Arabia.

Following a noticeable dip in form, including an absence from the top ranks in the 2022 Asia Cup and the Hangzhou Asian Games, this bronze medal signals a promising return to prominence under their Greek head coach Sotirios Manolopoulos.

Iran displayed impressive form throughout the tournament, sweeping their group stage matches against Japan, Syria, and Guam, followed by a thrilling comeback against Chinese Taipei in the quarterfinals. Their only defeat came against a powerful Australian squad in the semifinals.

Despite the heavy loss to Australia and the absence of the star player Mohammad Amini due to injury, the Iranian players showcased exceptional performance against New Zealand, securing a well-deserved victory. This bronze medal signifies Iran's re-emergence as a force in Asian basketball. Notably, considering Australia as a non-Asian team, Iran remained undefeated against other Asian contenders in the tournament.

The Iranian Basketball Federation's project with the Greek coach appears to be yielding positive results, with his focus on integrating young talents progressing well. The next target for the national team could be the Nagoya Asian Games, where the absence of Australia and New Zealand presents a prime opportunity for Iran's new generation to compete for a gold medal.

This bronze medal injects fresh vitality into Iranian basketball.  This success reflects a noticeable shift towards a new generation of players, a transformation credited to the risk-taking approach of coach Sotirios Manolopoulos, who remained committed to the team despite off-court challenges during the preparation phase.

While bronze might not equal gold, for Iranian basketball, which has endured recent setbacks and the retirement of veteran players, this achievement holds immense value. Securing third place in Asia, especially with the participation of Australia, is a positive sign and a foundation for future progress. The fighting spirit, teamwork, and tactical execution displayed in the victory against New Zealand, following a tough loss, were commendable.

The tournament also highlighted the emergence of talented young players. Manolopoulos' decision to provide opportunities to less experienced athletes in a major event proved successful, with players like Sina Vahedi, Mohammad Amini, Mobin Sheikhi, and Seyedmehdi Jafari showcasing their potential. Sina Vahedi's impressive performances earned him a spot in the FIBA Asia Cup All-Star Five.

Coach Manolopoulos expressed immense pride in his players' resilience, particularly their ability to bounce back after a heavy defeat. He praised the leadership of veterans Arsalan Kazemi and Arman Zangeneh, emphasizing their crucial role in guiding the younger players.