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SMART Publishes Volume 5 Rankings; 12 Teams Advance

7/9/2026

28 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

SMART Releases Rankings

The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers finished their First Round, leaving twelve teams competing for World Cup spots in Qatar.
The qualifiers’ Second Round is scheduled to begin in August.
SMART released Power Rankings Volume 5, evaluating the form of the twelve qualified teams after Window 3.
The new rankings compare each team’s performance with a previous Power Rankings list.

Summary

Saudi Arabia Defeated

Saudi Arabia lost 76-73 to Qatar, its first defeat to the 2027 World Cup hosts after four wins.
The team entered the Jeddah window without veteran big man Mohammed Almarwani, out with an ACL injury.
Despite the loss, Saudi Arabia secured a spot in the Second Round of Asian Qualifiers.
Observers said the Philippines may adjust its roster or tactics before the Second Round.

Summary

Qatar Revives Coach

Qatar reinstated former coach Wesam Al Sous, replacing Roy Rana, and posted a 5-1 record in Window 3.
Korea’s coach Nikolajs Mazurs earned his first win with an 81-79 comeback over Japan.
Lebanon, led by Ahmad Farran, extended its winning streak to four games after defeating India twice and Saudi Arabia.
Iran entered the Second Round on a three-game winning streak, finishing with a dominant win over Jordan.

History

Historical Context

Japan’s 2006 FIBA World Championship—held 19 August to 3 September, the first Asian edition with 24 national teams—showed how host advantage can boost performance. Qatar, which placed 15th in that tournament, now leverages that lesson while preparing to host the 2027 World Cup, a basketball event, entering the qualifiers with a 5-1 record.

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SMART Releases Rankings

The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers finished their First Round, leaving twelve teams competing for World Cup spots in Qatar.
The qualifiers’ Second Round is scheduled to begin in August.
SMART released Power Rankings Volume 5, evaluating the form of the twelve qualified teams after Window 3.
The new rankings compare each team’s performance with a previous Power Rankings list.

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