FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2025: Indian men's team qualify for main draw by thrashing Philippines

After the recent highs in the qualifying draw, India will aim to continue their momentum heading into the main draw.

Indian men’s basketball team has proven that the tiger has smelled blood, clawing into the main draw of the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2025 after an unbeaten qualification run in Singapore on March 26-27. Led by Pranav Prince, Harsh Dager, Aravind Kumar Muthukrishnan, and Kushal Singh, the squad dismantled the Republic of Korea 21-11, crushed Macau 21-6, and battled past the physicality of the Philippines 21-11, averaging a dominant 21 points per game. 

Harsh Dagar spearheaded the offense with 12-point performances against Korea and Macau before adding 10 against the Philippines, while Pranav Prince anchored the defense with elite shot-blocking and finishing inside. Their combination of size, athleticism, and relentless energy has made them a force to be reckoned with, but their biggest test awaits as they face Chinese Taipei and defending champions China in the main draw starting March 28. 

Meanwhile, the women’s squad—Gulabsha Ali, Aneesha Cleetus, Priyanka Prabakaran, and Sreekala Rani—faced early elimination after losses to Hong Kong China (6-17) and Chinese Taipei (13-17), struggling without key rebounders Pushpa Senthil Kumar and Kavya Singala. However, they ended their campaign on a high note, overpowering Guam 21-12 in a commanding win. 

Young cages have prey in their sights: Can They Seize the Moment?

In the qualifying rounds, Indian men’s basketball team displayed dominant skill and resilience:

Vs Republic of Korea (21-11):

India delivered a commanding 21-11 victory over the Republic of Korea in their first qualification game for the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2025 on March 26 in Kallang, Singapore. Led by Harsh Dagar, who scored 12 points, including 4 two-pointers, the team showcased efficient scoring and defensive resilience.

Kushal Singh added five points, while Arvind Muthu and Pranav Prince contributed 2 points each with key baskets to maintain India’s lead. The game was decided by India’s sharp shooting and defensive intensity, which restricted South Korea’s offensive flow.

Vs Macau (21-6):

India secured a dominant 21-6 victory over Macau in their second game in the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup qualification game on March 26 in Kallang, Singapore. Arvind Muthu opened the scoring and contributed five points, for the game while Kushal Singh added four, including a free throw.

Harsh Dagar led the team with 5 two-pointers and a stellar performance, scoring 12 points. Pranav Prince also made a key two-point shot. India controlled the game with early fouls drawn, efficient shot-making, and strong defense, limiting Macau’s offense.

Vs Philippines (21-11):

In a high-stakes match, with the spot in the main draw up for grabs India’s men’s basketball team secured a dominant 21-11 victory over the Philippines in a high-paced matchup. Pranav Prince opened the scoring, but the Philippines quickly responded with free throws, setting the tone for a back-and-forth start. India took control as Harsh Dagar led the charge with 10 points, including crucial free throws and a late two-pointer.

Kushal Singh and Pranav Prince contributed consistently, while India capitalized on defensive fouls, converting free throws effectively. Despite efforts, the Philippines struggled to regain momentum. With strong offensive execution and disciplined play, India closed out the game convincingly.

These triumphs have led India into the main draw, where they are set to face China, the most decorated nation in Asian basketball. China’s dominance is evident from their multiple 3×3 Asia Cup title wins.

Player Spotlight:

Pranav Prince

A dynamic scorer (10 points) with a knack for perimeter shooting and attacking the basket, Pranav utilizes his length to his advantage, making him a formidable shot-blocker near the rim. His presence on both ends of the floor will be crucial if India is to achieve the unthinkable in the main draw.

Harsh Dagar:

A defensive powerhouse, (34 Points) he has also been India’s primary offensive weapon, scoring over 10 points per game in the qualification draw. His laser-focused shooting from beyond the arc has stretched defenses, significantly raising the team’s ceiling from the qualifiers to the main draw.

Aravind Kumar Muthukrishnan

A versatile two-way player, Aravind (9 Points) has been instrumental in rebounding and mid-range scoring. He has consistently found scoring opportunities while making life miserable for opponents with his relentless defensive pressure.

Kushal Singh

A force in the paint, Kushal (10 points) has provided crucial shot-blocking and efficient finishing near the rim. While the team has largely revolved around perimeter shooting, Kushal has quietly done the dirty work inside. As the competition intensifies, his presence will become even more vital, adding both defensive stability and inside scoring.

India’s 3×3 pursuit:

Historically, the Indian men’s 3×3 teams have struggled to progress beyond the qualifying draws, often exiting in the early stages. The current squad’s advancement to the main draw marks a significant departure from past performances, signaling a new era in Indian 3×3 basketball.

The Four Factors for Glory

What Worked: India’s cohesive team play, aggressive defense, consistent offensive production, and clutch shooting were pivotal in their qualifying success.

Areas for Improvement: Minimizing turnovers making more sensible passes and enhancing free-throw accuracy will be crucial against top-tier teams.

Opportunities: Leveraging their underdog status to play with freedom and adaptability can unsettle more established opponents like Korea and the Philippines.

Challenges Ahead: Facing basketball powerhouses like China will test India’s tactical discipline in both physical and mental fortitude.

China and Chinese Taipei Stand in the Cagers’ Path to Glory

China: Renowned for their disciplined play, physicality, and tactical acumen, making them formidable opponents.

Chinese Taipei: Characterized by quick ball movement, sharpshooting, and agility, posing unique challenges.

Can India’s Scorching Form Continue?

India’s length, aggressive defense, and evolving offense have been instrumental in their recent success in the qualification round. As they prepare to face traditional Asian powerhouses, the question remains: Can this spirited Indian squad maintain their momentum and challenge the established hierarchy? Their bulldog defense and improved offensive execution will be critical in determining their competitiveness against Chinese teams.

Reflecting on a Tough Outing

The Indian women’s team once crowned champions in the inaugural 2013 Asian Championship, faced an uphill battle in Singapore, falling short of expectations. Their campaign was marked by:

Loss to Hong Kong China (6-17):

Defensive lapses and a lack of inside presence proved costly in a game that slipped away in the final minutes.

Defeat by Chinese Taipei (13-17):

Despite a resilient effort, India struggled to break through a well-structured opponent, exposing areas for improvement.

Victory over Guam (21-12):

A commanding win to close out their run, showing glimpses of their potential.

While their early exit stings, India’s women have a history of consistency in the 3×3 circuit. With the right adjustments, they’ll look to return stronger and reclaim their place among Asia’s elite.

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