Summary
New Zealand edged Iran 93-91 with a last-second shot, while the Philippines narrowly beat Jordan 82-81, improving both teams' records in the 2026 FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian qualifiers. China's men's team sit third in their group with a 4-3 record, level with Qatar. Over the remaining five rounds, China face Lebanon twice, Saudi Arabia twice and Qatar again.
With fierce competition in the adjacent group, a drop to fourth place could pit China against New Zealand or the Philippines, seriously jeopardising their qualification hopes. Guo Shiqiang is under mounting pressure.
Commentary
New Zealand's 93-91 last-gasp win over Iran and the Philippines' 82-81 narrow victory against Jordan have intensified competition in Group B of the Asian qualifiers. Since the Oceania duo joined the Asian competition, Australia have led the pack, while New Zealand, Jordan and Iran are all tied at 5-2. China sit at 4-3 and hold no head-to-head advantage should they meet New Zealand or the Philippines in the play-offs.
For NZ small and medium-sized business owners, the Tall Blacks' improved record brings brand exposure, which could boost demand for basketball training, sports tourism and equipment exports. However, if China fail to qualify for the World Cup, Chinese basketball consumption sentiment may weaken, affecting NZ sports service providers' promotion in China. The commercial value of New Zealand basketball is deeply tied to its performance in Asian tournaments.
Keywords: FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers, China men's basketball team, Guo Shiqiang, New Zealand, Philippines, last-gasp win, qualification prospects, Asian zone, 2026
Source: Sina
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