Tehran - BORNA - As the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup prepares to tip off in Saudi Arabia on August 4, FIBA has paid tribute to Haddadi, calling him “one of the most influential players in Asian basketball history.” From 2005 to 2022, Haddadi anchored Iran’s national team through eight tournaments, leaving behind an unmatched record of dominance.
A Dynasty Built Under the Basket
Haddadi’s breakout moment came in Tokushima 2007, where at just 22 years old, he led Iran to its first-ever Asia Cup title. Averaging 13 points, 10 rebounds, and 1 block per game, he dominated the paint and proved unstoppable for opposing defenses — earning his first MVP award.
Two years later in Tianjin 2009, Haddadi returned stronger. He posted 15.8 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 4 blocks per game, securing Iran’s back-to-back championship and his second MVP title. In the final against China, Haddadi was sensational — 19 points, 17 rebounds, 1 block — cementing Iran’s supremacy in Asia.
Though China regained the title in 2011, Haddadi remained a standout, with averages of 15.4 points and 11.4 rebounds. In 2013, he reclaimed both the continental gold and a third MVP — by now the undisputed force at the center position in Asia.
The Masterpiece in Beirut
The 2017 Asia Cup in Beirut marked the pinnacle of Haddadi’s continental career. Though Iran fell short in the final against Australia, Haddadi once again shone the brightest. With an average of 6.5 assists per game, he not only led his team in scoring and rebounding but also emerged as the top playmaker of the entire tournament — a rare feat for a center. He was named MVP for a record fourth time — a milestone no other player in Asia Cup history has matched.
A Playmaker in a Center’s Body
What made Haddadi exceptional wasn’t just his size or stats — it was his vision. One national team coach once described him as “a point guard playing from the post.” His ability to attract defenders and dish out precise, intelligent passes revolutionized how centers contributed to offense in Asia.
In fact, during the 2017 tournament, he led all players in assists — underlining his unique role as a dual-threat facilitator and finisher. He turned every possession into a tactical weapon and every teammate into a scoring option.
A Record That Defines an Era
Across the four Asia Cups where Haddadi won MVP, Iran played 32 games, winning 30, collecting three golds (2007, 2009, 2013) and one silver (2017). His influence extended far beyond numbers — he was the spiritual and tactical axis of a dominant Iranian team.
Legacy of an Icon
As the road to the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup begins, Haddadi’s legacy continues to inspire a new generation. He didn’t just play the center position — he redefined it in Asia: a two-way general, a court leader, and a player who made winning a habit.
For Iran, he built the foundations of continental dominance. For the Asia Cup, he became the gold standard — a benchmark to be studied and admired by every rising star aiming for greatness.
Watch the highlights of Hamed Haddadi’s legendary assists in the video below.
End Article