US cagers drub Brazil

Hawkins ended with 12 points but it was an all-round performance from a side who have been together for three weeks pitched in at the deep end.

The turning point came with the score at 27-24 for Brazil after the South Americans had made a promising start.

With Hawkins, an ex-NBA performer, buzzing around the court and collegiate Brad Miller imposing his massive frame, the US scored 11 points without reply on the way to a comfortable half-time lead of 40-32.

A quick burst after the break saw the Americans at 57-42 and after that it was largely over as a contest.

Miller also finished on 12 points, rounding off remarkable display with the final unopposed basket with a second togo.

Wendell Alexis, with 13 points, was top scorer for the Americans.

Brazil8217;s best player was the veteran Joao Jose Vivana, now aged 35 and probably in his last major tournament. He scored 11 points but when he fouled out, Brazilian hopes virtually went with him. Forward Rogerio Klafke with 12 points was Brazils top scorer.

INDIANAPOLIS TO HOST: The 2002 mens World Basketball Championships will be held in Indianapolis over the first two weeks of September.

The 14th edition of the competition is to be staged in two venues, the 18,500 seater Conseco Fieldhouse and the RCA Dome, which can hold 30,000, it was announced yesterday.