Iran leans on Hadadi, Bahrami to beat Korea

Hamed HADADI vs Jongkyu KIM. Nuki Sabio

MANILA, Philippines – Hamed Hadadi scored 15 of his game-high 30 points in the fourth quarter to lead Iran past Korea, 76-65, in the 27th FIBA-Asia men’s Championship Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Hadadi, the former Memphis Grizzlies reserve, proved to be a cut above the rest the moment he imposed his will inside as Korea just simply couldn’t find ways to contain the seven-foot-two center.

“We expected such a game from Korea. After winning against China, they had all the confidence,” said Iran coach Mehmed Becirovic. “We had problems on defense. At halftime we talked about it and we improved.”

“In the first half we played bad. We didn’t focus. In the second half we played better defensively,” said the 28-year-old Hadadi, who last played for the Phoenix Suns.

Iran, the former Asian champion out to reclaim its position atop the heap, came out of the halftime huddle a different team after seeing Korea take a 34-30 lead.

Samad Nikkhah Bahrami took charge in the third quarter that helped Iran gain some momentum on both ends of the court. Bahrami, who can play multiple positions, shot 23 points, 10 in the third period, and dished out seven rebounds and four assists.

Korea kept within striking distance before Hadadi’s inside basket and Bahrami’s three-point play put the game away, 71-59, with 1:53 remaining.

Kim Joo-sung, Korea’s top scorer in its 63-59 upset of China Thursday night, had as many points as fouls with five. He fouled out with still 3:06 remaining.

“The starting members were not a good choice. The entire game was really hard,” said Korea coach Yoo Jae Hak through an interpreter.

Iran, which leads Group C with a 2-0 record heading into a showdown with reigning champion China, also got a lift from veteran playmaker Mahdi Kamrany.

Kamrany collected five points, four rebounds and nine assists with just one turnover.

“Kamrany is very important to the team. He is one of the most experienced players on the team. He is my right hand,” said Becirovic.