Seremban, Malaysia — September 2025
In a heart-stopping opening game of the FIBA U-16 Women’s Asia Cup 2025 (Division B), India’s under-16 girls’ basketball team came from behind to beat Iran 70-67, holding their nerve in the final moments.
Key Moments & Players
Iran built a strong lead in the third quarter, but India rallied in the fourth.
Mahek Sharma was instrumental, scoring 15 points and pulling down 13 rebounds to power India’s comeback.
Reva Kulkarni added a stellar all-round performance: 20 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Her versatility kept India in the game.
On Iran’s side, Mobina Beheira led scoring with 18 points, while Elina Kazemevini added 13 points and 5 boards during their third-quarter surge.
What This Means
India’s win gives them an early advantage in the group and boosts confidence heading into the rest of the tournament.
- Iran, despite the loss, showed resilience and strong scoring potential; they’ll be keen to bounce back in their next fixtures.
“India came from behind to beat Iran 70-67 in a thrilling start to Division B play of the FIBA U-16 Women’s Asia Cup 2025.”
“Indian Mahek Sharma finished with 15 points and 13 rebounds. Sharma’s heroics, furthermore, saved the efforts of her teammates in orchestrating the resistance, which saw Reva Kulkarni lead the way with 20 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists.”
You could try to get a comment from the coach. Although I couldn’t find a direct coach quote yet, something like:
“The team showed great character in the final moments. Building from our strengths and fighting up till the last second made the difference,”
— Coach Anitha Pauldurai
