AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) - An incredible first half from Mohammad Amjad has propelled Iran to its first victory of the tournament and 15th place at the FIBA U19 World Championship in Auckland, New Zealand.

Amjad nailed 5/7 three pointers in the opening two periods to record 23 points for the half in just 15:12 of court time, to end all Syrian hopes of recording their first win.

Iran led 25-20 at quarter time, with Tarek Al Jabe’s 8 points keeping Syria within reach. But a 12-4 run to start the second quarter extended the lead to 13, with the Iranians going on to lead 51-31 at half time.

The second half was all Iran, outscoring their Asian rivals 42-22 to run out 93-53 winners.

Amjad finished with 29 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals in 28:47. Amazingly, he had scored just 26 points in the first four games of the tournament. Captain Arsalan Kazemi also farewelled the tournament in style, recording 23 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals and 2 blocks.
 
For Syria, who finish in 16th place, only Al Jabe put up any stern resistance with 14 points and 5 boards.

The next underage tournament for both teams will be the 2010 U18 Asian Championship.

FIBA