It’s a David vs. Goliath affair in Group G of the 2023 FIBA World Cup this Wednesday, as undefeated Spain square off versus the egg-laying Iranians. Anything can happen, but can Iran pull off a stunner? Or, will Spain add Iran to their growing list of victims in the tourney as virtually everyone expects?
Catch this game live on Wednesday, August 30, at 9:30 PM, Manila time
Iran (0-2)
Projected Starting Five:
- PG: Behnam Yakhchalidehkordi
- SG: Matin Aghajanpour
- SF: Piter Girgoorian
- PF: Arsalan Kazemi
- C: Hasan Aliakbari
Iran are still winless in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. In their firs game in the tournament, Iran got destroyed by Brazil, 100-59 over the weekend. They they lost a close one to Ivory Coast on Monday, 71-69. It’s not looking shiny for Iran’s prospects to score a win soon with the mighty Spain in front of them this Wednesday, but they still have a case for at least a cover.
Iran failed to cover the spread against Brazil, but they managed to do so in the following game versus Ivory Coast, thanks in large part to the performances of Mohamad Amini and Behnam Yakhchali, who scored 15 and 19 points, respectively. And don’t forget good, ole Hamed Haddadi, who leads Iran in efficiency (16.0) and in rebounds (6.0). Chances are, Spain will blow out Iran, but there could still be a clear shot for the Iranians to pull off a backdoor cover, especially if the Spaniards take their foot off the gas in the fourth quarter.
Spain (2-0)
Projected Starting Five:
- PG: Juan Nunez
- SG: Alex Abrines
- SF: Joel Parra
- PF: Juancho Hernangomez
- C: Willy Hernangomez
One thing to know about Spain heading into their matchup against Iran is that they beat Brazil and Ivory Coast for their two wins thus far in the tournament by a combined margin of 48 points. That number alone tells everything you need to realize how high the mountain Iran have to climb this Wednesday.
Leading the Spanish Armada is Willy Hernangomez, who is averaging 18.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 0.5 blocks per game. In Spain’s 96-78 demolition of Brazil, Hernangomez hustled for 14 points to go with five rebounds and two assists. Spain are shooting 52.4 percent from the field and will likely put up a more efficient shooting splits against Iran’s leaky defense.
PREDICTIONS:
Spread: Spain (-33.5) cover the spread.
Over/Under: The total (155.5) hits the Over.
