Failing to find timely baskets while giving away easy attempts to their higher ranked opponents cost India dearly as hosts Kazakhstan recorded a 13-point (63-50) win in their tournament opener of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 qualifiers at Astana on Friday.
Though the 81st ranked Indian cagers had a positive start, a four-minute dry spell after the change of ends gave world no. 68 Kazakhstan the momentum. After taking their biggest 14-point lead in the 26th minute of play, the home team maintained that advantage for a 13-point victory.