China thrash Saudi

2009/11/20

ON the very first day of the competition, China showed why they are the favourites to win Asia Under-16 men's basketball championship by thrashing Saudi Arabia 109-29 at Johor Baru City Council Indoor Stadium yesterday. So dominant were China that their Arabian rivals were restricted to a mere half a dozen points at half time as the Chinese led 45-6.

The versatile Guo Ailun top scored for the Chinese with 20 points; the towering Zhu Xuhang with 17 and the best player on the court, Ju Mingxin with 13.

"China are my tip to win the championship," said Saudi Arabia's French-born coach Anninou Moncef.

Meanwhile, Malaysia beat Thailand 80-44 in their Group D match.

The South Koreans are just as efficient in their 101-33 win over Singapore. Shooting guard Shin Hyo Sub hit 25 points, out of which 21 were from three-pointers. Centre Lee Jong Hyun added another 16 to make Singapore pay for their inadequacy.

Iran, said to be serious contenders in the 16-team championship, provided glimpses of brilliance to beat Taiwan 87-74. Jordan beat India 57-31.