KUWAIT (FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup): Qatar closed their campaign in the second FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup with an 82-47 win over India on Sunday.

Already out of contention for the title, having lost all their previous three outings, it was Qatar’s first win.

India, winless in the tournament after three games, take on Kazakhstan on Monday.

With Khalid Abdi confined to the sidelines, his ankle in bandage, Omer Salem led the Qatari barrage with 19 points. Ali Ali chipped in with 17 points.

“It’s always good to win,” said Qatar coach Kent Davison.

“What is really crucially about this win is that these players will now break off to play for their clubs. And they would come back to me only in December. So this victory is what will remain in our minds when we reassemble,” he said.

“Having said that, I reiterate that the boys showed tremendous character to even come back to the court after last night’s disappointment.”

“So in all respects, this win has more significance than the score-line,” the American said.

Robinson with 12 points was the leading scorer for India.

“Every game is a learning experience for my team,” said India coach Aleksandar Bucan.

Scores

Qatar 82 (Omer Salem 19, Ali Ali 17) bt India 47 (Robinson 12). Quarterwise Scores: 20-12, 45-20, 66-36.

S Mageshwaran
FIBA Asia