Barbosa, Varejao contribute in Brazil's victory vs. winless Qatar

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, Leandro Barbosa of the Phoenix Suns and Anderson Varejao of the Cleveland Cavaliers, played 16 minutes each in the opening half and helped Brazil control the play.

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.