The Tall Blacks have tipped off their FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers with a resounding 101-46 over India at Manila on Thursday.
Despite the unavailability of several first-choice players, Pero Cameron's inexperienced squad were far too strong for their over-matched opponents, holding the Indians to just 25 first-half points, before accelerating clear in the second half.
Forward Tom Vodanovich was the stand-out for the Tall Blacks with an efficient 21 points on 8/13 shooting, while centre Rob Loe filled the stat sheet with a double-double of 15 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists.
Guard Ethan Rusbatch added 18 points and five assists, and promising Canterbury Rams guard Taylor Britt contributed 11 points, and three assists to go with four steals.
Korea's withdrawal from the event means the Tall Blacks' next game is against hosts the Philippines on Sunday night (NZ time).
