Tall Blacks demolish Syria in World Cup qualies
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The Tall Blacks have taken another step towards qualifying for next year's FIBA Basketball World Cup.
The New Zealand side eased past Syria in Manila 126-74 to move into second place in their Asian qualifying group behind Australia.
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The victory followed a 93-91 overtime win over Iran two days earlier, leaving them well placed to advance, with four games remaining in the latest group stage.
Veteran guard Corey Webster was successful with eight of 18 three-point shots in a 22-point haul as the Tall Blacks gained early control against Syria and dominated every aspect as they pulled steadily clear.
Point guard Flynn Cameron scored 21 and centre Sam Mennenga 20, missing just one shot in his 17 minutes on court as coach Judd Flavell spread the minutes across his players.
The Tall Blacks will play Jordan and Syria in their next qualifying games in late November, at a location yet to be confirmed.
New Zealand 126 (Corey Webster 22, Flynn Cameron 21, Sam Mennenga 20, Reuben Te Rangi 12, Sam Waardenburg 13, Carlin Davison 10), Syria 74 (James Justice Jr 22). 1Q: 31-19; HT: 65-43; 3Q: 99-55.
