FIBA Asia: Japan claims ninth place; India nips Bahrain in battle for 11th

GREWAL Nerender of India (light) and WATANABE Yuta of Japan (dark) NUKI SABIO / PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Japan pulled away in the second half to trounce Hong Kong, 79-50, and claim ninth place in the 27th FIBA Asia men’s Championship Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Kosuke Kanamaru led the Japanese, who got a lift from their reserves with 33 points, with 25 points on 11-of-18 shooting from the field.

Chinese-Canadian center Duncan Reid posted 18 points and 13 rebounds for Hong Kong, which put up its best performance in a loss to host Philippines last Wednesday, in a losing effort.

Earlier, India edged Bahrain, 75-65, to finish in 11th place.

Vishesh Bhriguvanshi led the Indians with 19 points to go along with seven rebounds and four assists.

Husain Altawash paced injury-depleted Bahrain with 20 points.