Qatar Faces Tough Test Against Australia in FIBA Asia Cup 2025

Doha, August 9, 2025

Qatar’s national basketball team is set to face a formidable challenge against defending champions Australia on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the third round of Group A matches at the FIBA Asia Cup 2025, held in Saudi Arabia until August 17.
Following consecutive losses to Lebanon (84-80) and South Korea (97-83), Qatar is under pressure to secure a victory to keep their hopes alive for advancing to the knockout stages. Meanwhile, Australia, the reigning champions, have dominated Group A, starting with a commanding 97-61 win over South Korea and a 93-80 victory against Lebanon, earning them the top spot with 4 points. Lebanon and South Korea follow with 3 points each, while Qatar holds 2 points.

Led by Turkish head coach Hakan Demir, Qatar is focusing on addressing defensive lapses and reducing turnovers while boosting offensive efficiency. The team will rely on the talents of American professional Brandon Goodwin, alongside key players Abdulrahman Saad, Zain Eldin Badri, and the dominant presence of Alen Hadzibegovic under the basket.

The matchup against Australia, known for their physicality and rapid offensive transitions, represents one of Qatar’s toughest challenges in the group stage. A positive result could defy expectations and significantly boost the team’s campaign.
The Qatar delegation in Jeddah is led by Saadoun Sabah Al Kuwari, General Secretary of the Qatar Basketball Federation and Director of National Teams. Administrative support is provided by Jassim Ibrahim Ashkanani (Team Manager) and Nabil Juma (Assistant Manager). The medical team includes Dr. Adel Saleem, Dr. Adel Hormia, and physiotherapist Nikasio Sagayno.

Coach Hakan Demir, supported by assistants Cengiz Karadag, Abdu Su, Attila Yapcilar, and Mohammed Fural, continues to refine the team’s defensive and offensive strategies. Qatar’s 12-player roster includes Brandon Goodwin, Alen Hadzibegovic, Seydou Ndiaye, Zain Eldin Badri, Tyler Harris, Aladji Magassa, Omar Saad, Mustafa Ndao, Mohammed Basheer, Babacar Dieng, Abdulrahman Saad, and Mahmoud Darwish.