Jordan needed overtime to defeat India 91-84 in Group C’s opening game of the FIBA Asia Cup, held in Jeddah until August 17. Dar Tucker led Jordan with 30 points, while Hashem Abbas added 24 points and forced overtime with two late baskets. India had led 80-76 with under a minute left before Jordan rallied. Abdullah Olajuwon, son of NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon, contributed 10 points and six rebounds.
Saudi Arabia, also in Group C, put up a strong fight but lost to 16-time champion China 88-93. Mohammed Ali Abdulrahman starred for the hosts with 32 points, while China’s Jin Qiu He and Zhao Rui combined for 39 points. Despite trailing by 15 in the final quarter, Saudi Arabia closed the gap to five before the final buzzer.
In Group D, Iraq lost to New Zealand 78-100. Though Iraq led 43-42 at halftime, New Zealand dominated the fourth quarter 37-17. Taylor Britt scored 21 points for the Kiwis, while Diyar Ahmed Abdullah led Iraq with 19.
Next up: Saudi Arabia faces Jordan, while Iraq meets Chinese Taipei.
