FIBA-Asia: Kazakhstan routs Thailand; Bahrain squeaks past India

Sukhdave Ghogar of Thailand (red) slips as he struggles for the ball versus Anton Ponomarev (yellow) of Kazakhstan. FIBA ASIA PHOTO/Nuki Sabio

MANILA, Philippines—Kazakhstan picked up its game in the second half to score an 81-67 drubbing of Thailand in Group D play in the final game of opening day of the 27th FIBA-Asia Championship late Thursday night at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Anton Ponomarev scored 21 points and grabbed 13 rebounds for Kazakhstan in a game where the Kazakhs never trailed and led by as much as 25 points.

Darunpong Apiromvilaichai paced the Thais, who were out-rebounded, 48-21, and gave up 22 turnover points off their 18 miscues, with 16 points on 16 shot attempts

In the other Group D play held at a separate venue, Bahrain outlasted India, 82-80, in overtime at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Mohamed Kawaid led Bahrain’s attack with 25 points on 11-of-11 shooting at the free throw line while naturalized center CJ Giles, who was once part of Smart Gilas, added 13 points, 14 rebounds and four blocks.

Former De La Salle Green Archer Bader Malabes chipped in seven points in 18 minutes.