Korea easily beats Bahrain in FIBA Asia

MANILA, Philippines—Korea bucked a slow start to whip Bahrain, 96-51, in the second phase of the 27th FIBA Asia men’s championship late Monday night at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Kim Tae Sool led the Koreans with 17 points, seven assists and four steals.

Korea, which shot 56 percent from the field and an impressive 30-of-40 shooting from the two-point area, trailed, 2-7, in the opening minutes before taking a 42-26 lead at the half.

Ahmed Ismaeel scored 19 points for Bahrain, which missed the presence of naturalized big man CJ Giles.

Korea, which assisted on 28 of its 36 baskets and committed just 15 turnovers, led, 72-47, after three quarters.