BUENOS AIRES (FIBA U16 Women's Americas Championship 2017) - The first day of the FIBA U16 Women's Americas Championship 2017 saw victories for Canada, United States, Mexico and Argentina.

Canada began its U16 title defense in Group A action against Venezuela and quickly established a 16-0 lead on the scoreboard. Taking advantage of height difference, the Canadians took the ball to the paint and scored 50 points. The team coached by Dani Sinclair displayed its offensive repertoire and shot 50% from the field, compared to just 25% for the Venezuelans.

The Canadians got 29 points from their bench on the way to an 89-38 win. Brynn Ann Masikewich was the top scorer with 17 points.

Looking to leave behind a disappointing third place finish at the 2015 edition of the competition, USA opened with a resounding 91-33 defeat of feisty Colombia. The North Americans began the game with a 32-4 first quarter, but the aggressive Colombians didn’t back down and won the second quarter 15-14. USA then took control of both sides of the court and kept adding to a growing lead. The top performer for the USA was Aliyah Boston with 17 points and 9 rebounds.

Mexico's suffocating defense was key factor for the Mexicans to start their campaign with a 76-49 win over Puerto Rico. The team coached by Pedro Ramos, found its level right away and raced out to a 13-5 lead. Mexico's height came into play and the Mexicans took advantage, by scoring 36 of the team’s point from the painted area under the basket. The Puerto Ricans couldn't recover their rhythm and Mexico went on to capture the important win. Mexico was led offensively by a whopping 34 points from Karina Esquer.

Argentina started on the right path by defeating the Dominican Republic 77-42. The team coached by Laura Cors jumped right into the game and establish a quick 7-0 lead. Argentina showed great defensive pressure and produced 11 steals. Argentina kept adding to their advantage and put the outcome beyond reach thanks to a 23-13 third quarter. They didn't take the foot of the gas pedal and won the game comfortably to close out the first day of the competition.

On Thursday, Puerto Rico will take on Colombia, USA will face Mexico, Canada will look for another win against the Dominican Republic and Argentina will face Venezuela in South American team match-up.

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