FIBA qualifier ends in dramatic fashion after India’s Hail Mary half-court heave

Vishesh Bhriguvanshi after hitting a half-court game-winner (FIBA Instagram)

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

In a very odd ending, India forced a turnover against Iraq after a solid defensive possession that saw both teams deadlocked at 78 with 3.5 seconds left.

Desperate for one clear look at the basket, Vishesh Bhriguvanshi threw a wild shot near the half-court line – which cleared the basket to everybody’s surprise.

Bhriguvanshi was the hero of the ball game. He finished the match with 11 points, three assists, two rebounds, and two steals.

The win secured India a ticket to the FIBA final qualifying tournament and keeps their hopes alive despite carrying a 2-3 win-loss record.