Cyprus joined FIBA in 1974, where the team has mostly competed in smaller competitions such as the Games of the Small States of Europe, winning it nine times.

For qualification to EuroBasket 2017, Cyprus was placed into Group A during the qualifiers; although the team would once again be rebuffed at reaching the continental stage.

Immediately, Cyprus would run out to a big first quarter lead, and never looked back, winning 53–67.

Cyprus dropped their final two matches of group play, to finish with a (2–2) record to advance.

Cyprus blew an opportunity to advance to the final stage of qualifiers, but would have one more chance to make amends in the third round.

Heading into the final window of pre-qualifiers, Cyprus needed to finish top of Group F, if they were to achieve their goal.