NZ opens FIBA WCQ QC window with blowout vs. India

Tom Vodanovich played efficient basketball for New Zealand. FIBA

By Ivan Saldajeno

QUEZON CITY--New Zealand made quick work of India and walked away victorious with a 101-46 rout at the start of Group A action in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers on Thursday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Tall Blacks stomped their authority over the Indians right at the get-go, opening a 20-2 lead in the first five and a half minutes of the game and never letting go of the lead in the end.

Takiula Fahrensohn even put up a show in the end as he put the exclamation point to the contest with a poster dunk.

Tom Vodanovich led New Zealand, which will take a two-day break before facing Gilas Pilipinas and India in back-to-back games, with 21 points, four rebounds, and three assists.

Ethan Rusbatch added 18 points, two rebounds, five assists, and one steal, while Rob Loe had a double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds with six assists.

Sahaij Pratap Singh Sekhon was the only Indian in double figures in terms of scoring with 10 points alongside five rebounds and four assists.