Iranians blast grieving Malaysians in FIBA Asia opener

MANILA, Philippines – Facing a grieving Malaysian team, title favorite Iran showed no mercy on its way to opening the 2013 Manila FIBA Asia Men’s Basketball Championship with a 115-25 rout on Thursday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Iran’s Slovenian coach Mehmed Becirovic was in no mood to celebrate but heaped praises to the Malaysians for showing up despite the tragedy that struck them few days before the tournament.

Malaysia lost its young center Jacky Ng Kiat-Kee due to a heart attack in an invitational tournament in China last Monday.

“I have to commend Malaysia for showing up and playing fair. It is hard to play in their situation,” Becirovic said after the game.

Berovic had the luxury of using all his 12 players in what became a practice game before battling contenders Korea and China in the next two days.

NBA veteran Hamed Hadadi was unstoppable early on scoring quick five points to jumpstart Iran’s domination.  Hadadi, who last played for the Phoenix Suns in the NBA, finished with 21 points and eight rebounds in just 13 minutes of play.

Five more Iranians scored in double figures led by the other Iranian big man Asghar Kardoust, who chipped in 15 points and five rebounds in 14 minutes.