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Thailand rallies in second half to beat Malaysia

By Ivan Saldajeno

QUEZON CITY—Thailand used a huge second half blitz to turn back Malaysia, 74-67, in their SEABA Men's Championship contest at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday night.

Down by as much as 12 in the first half, the Thais used a 14-2 run to take the lead for good, 55-49, at the end of the third quarter. They would lead by as high as 12, 68-56, midway through the fourth.

But with ace Chitchai Ananti already cramping, the Malaysians came to as close as three, 65-68, with 58.9 seconds left.

Thailand closed the game on a 7-2 run to complete the comeback.

Ananti finished with 24 points, 18 in the first half, eight rebounds, three assists, and one steal for Thailand.

Choo Wei Hong tallied 12 markers, two rebounds, two assists, and two swipes for Malaysia.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno