India’s history in Basketball events at the Asian Games

Although its performance has been a combination of achievements and struggles, India has a remarkable history in the basketball competitions at the Asian Games. Here is a thorough history of Indian basketball at the Asian Games.

Also Read: Epic History of Field Hockey in Asian Games

Early Years and Medal in 1965

Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams from India competed in the 1951 Asian Games in New Delhi, which marked the start of their Asian Games basketball careers. In 1965, in Bangkok, Thailand, the Indian men’s basketball team won its first and only gold medal in the Asian Games.

This accomplishment is still a crucial turning point in Indian basketball history. At the Asian Games in Bangkok in 1970, the Indian women’s basketball team earned their first medal—a bronze one.

Inconsistent results throughout the 1980s and 1990s

In the 1980s and 1990s, India’s basketball teams had a mixed record, consistently falling short of the top spots. The Indian men’s team placed lower, but they occasionally defeated opponents with less competition. The Indian women’s basketball team performed far better during this time, winning medals and frequently placing in the top five.

Difficulties in the 2000s

During this time, other Asian nations posed a greater threat to the men’s and women’s basketball teams from India. The teams frequently placed in the bottom half of the standings during the competition.

Recent Years

The Indian men’s basketball team competed at the Asian Games in 2014 and 2018 but had difficulty winning gold. In comparison to the men’s team, the Indian women’s basketball team performed better during this time and showed greater promise.

Development and Efforts

India kept funding the growth of basketball at the grassroots level despite obstacles. The Basketball Federation of India (BFI) sought to upgrade basketball players’ training facilities and surrounding infrastructure.

Conclusion

It’s crucial to note that a number of variables, including a lack of resources, competition from other Asian countries with rich basketball traditions, and little exposure to high-caliber international competition, have affected India’s basketball success at the Asian Games.