MANILA, Philippines — The cast for Group E of the second round of the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers is complete as the Philippines joins powerhouse squad Australia and New Zealand, along with West Asian teams led by many-time Asian champion Iran, Jordan and Syria.
Iran and Jordan finish tied at Group C with similar 5-1 records.
But the Iranians secured the top spot by virtue of their 67-49 rout of the Jordanians in Amman last July 2 during their Window 3 collision in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.
Gunner Mohammad Mahdi Heydari scattered 17 points on 7-of-11 shooting while weteran forward Arsalan Kazemi delivered an all-around effort for Iran, scoring seven points, but had 11 rebounds, and seven assists in 32 minutes of play. As of posting time, Australia and Gilas Pilipinas are engaged in a window 3 match at the RAC Arena in Perth on Monday.
Justin Brownlee sat out that game due to multiple injuries on his leg, knee and hamstring.
But regardless of the game result, the Boomers are assured of topping Group A, with New Zealand at second spot, followed by Gilas.
Manila is expected to host the fourth qualifying window, with the SM Mall of Asia Arena, potentially serving as the playing venue scheduled on August 27 and 31.
