Iran Basketball Team Loses to Philippines in Friendly
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iran national basketball team was defeated against the Philippines in a friendly match.
In the match held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Manila, the Iranian team lost to host 81-70.
Andray Blatche came through with game highs of 20 points and 11 rebounds in a sparkling performance.
Behnam Yakhchali and Oshin Sahakian put in 16 and 13 points, respectively, for the Iranians.
“Playing in the Philippines against such a good and well-coached team will be huge for our young players. We want them to get as much experience from this,” Iran coach Dirk Bauermann said before the friendly. “We have the highest respect for Gilas and Coach Tab.”
Iran is preparing for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT), slated for July 4-9.
