MNA � Iranian basketballers suffered a defeat against Australia to become vice-champion in FIBA Asia Cup in Beirut.


In the final debut competed on Sunday evening the Lebanese capital, Iran�s outfit against Australian rivals comprised Hamed Haddadi, Arsalan Kazemi, Behnam Yakhchali, Mohammad Jamshidi and Sajjad Yakhchali who had been convoked by head coach Mehran Hatami.

Despite Iran�s efforts to crown the tournament, it was Australia who became the first-ever FIBA Asia Cup champions after pulling out a 79-56 win in Sunday's Final in Beirut.

The Oceanian side took an early 12-2 lead in the tough encounter paving its path for winning the title.

Iran's Hamed Haddadi was named the tournament's MVP (Most Valuable Player) and headlined the All-Star Five along with his compatriot Mohammad Jamshidi as well as with Shae Ili of New Zealand, Korea's Oh Sekeun and Lebanon�s Fadi El Khatib.

Earlier on Sunday, Korea breezed past New Zealand 79-56 to stand on the third podium.

FIBA Asia Cup 2017 Top 8:

1. Australia

2. Iran

3. Korea

4. New Zealand

5. China

6. Lebanon

7. Philippines

8. Jordan