HAMAMATSU, Japan -- Center Tiago Splitter scored 18 points Sunday and Brazil evened its Group C record at the world basketball championship, never trailing and always in control during a 97-66 win over Qatar.
The South Americans, who lost 83-77 Saturday to Australia in their opening game, put on a 14-4 scoring spurt early in the opening quarter en route to a 51-29 halftime lead at Hamamatsu Arena.
Qatar, making its first appearance at the world titles, lost 84-64 to European champion Greece on Saturday. A day later, the Middle Eastern side found itself under constant pressure by a relentless Brazilian defense.
Brazil's two NBA stars,
They were used sparingly in the second half by coach Lula Ferreira, each player getting just nine minutes on court. Brazil has a key matchup against Turkey on Tuesday.
Barbosa, still nursing an injured hand, finished with six points and Varejao, who suffered a foot injury ahead of the championship, added 13.
Mosa Daoud was Qatar's top scorer with 16 points.
Teams in Group C have a day off Monday. On Tuesday, Qatar plays Lithuania.
