Indonesia Advances Despite Defeat as Malaysia Dominates FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s men’s basketball team closed the first round of the FIBA Asia Cup 2029 Pre-Qualifiers with a 63–77 defeat to host nation Malaysia on Monday night, August 31, 2026, but already shifting its focus toward regrouping for the second round.

Despite finishing third in Group C with one win and two losses, Indonesia remains in contention, advancing to the next phase scheduled for late November.

Under coach David Reynard Singleton, Indonesia struggled to contain Malaysia’s offense early, trailing 11–21 in the opening quarter, Antara reported. A spirited second-quarter rally led by Anthony Beane, who finished with 23 points, narrowed the gap to 31–37 at halftime.

Malaysia, however, regained control in the third quarter and sealed the win with stronger shooting efficiency, particularly from beyond the arc, where Indonesia managed just 16.7 percent compared to Malaysia’s 36.8 percent.

The result capped Indonesia’s mixed run in Group C, which began with an 80–54 victory over Singapore but was followed by a 60–71 loss to Hong Kong and the latest setback against Malaysia.

Still, the team’s third-place finish ensures progression to Group F, where they will face Hong Kong, Mongolia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Fiji in the second round.

Managing Director of the National Team Board (BTN) at the Indonesian Basketball Association (Perbasi), Jeremy Imanuel Santoso, acknowledged the shortcomings of the first round but emphasized the importance of immediate evaluation.

“Two defeats will be our material for evaluation as quickly as possible before facing Round 2 at the end of November,” he said, stressing that players such as Yudha Saputera and his teammates must capitalize on every opportunity in the next phase to secure wins.

While admitting the results fell short of expectations, Jeremy praised the squad’s effort and highlighted the role of supporters. He noted that feedback from fans would be considered in the team’s review process.

With time to regroup before November, Indonesia now has the chance to sharpen its performance and strengthen its bid for a place in the FIBA Asia Cup 2029. ***