VALDIVIA (FIBA Americas U18) – Brazil and USA earned tickets to the Semi-Finals of the 2016 FIBA Americas U18 Women’s Championship after grabbing wins in Day 3 of the continental championship. Meanwhile, Canada earned the top seed of Group B with a telling win over Puerto Rico.

USA earned a spot at the Semi-Finals of the 2016 FIBA Americas U18 Women’s Championship after defeating Venezuela, 110-52. The North Americans controlled the actions from the get-go, after winning the first quarter 36-17. USA’s depth came into effect and the team kept dominated the proceedings on both sides of the court, to add to the impressive lead. USA dominated the boards 65-31, and shot for a 51% from the field.

Lauren Cox had a 14 point, 10 rebound double-double for the North Americans, as Jeannie Boehm added 20 points for the defending champs.

Brazil finished the FIBA Americas U18 Championship Semi-Finals picture after defeating Guatemala, 109-43. The Brazilians dominated the game from the get-go establishing an early lead and the rhythm. Guatemala fought hard, but the South Americans kept adding to their game. Brazil finished the group phase with the second position of Group A.

Canada earned the top spot of Group B after defeating Puerto Rico, 69-47. Canada went into the game right away and held Puerto Rico to just 2 points during the first quarter. The Boricuas looked better on defense during the second quarter and during the fourth quarter got within 10 points of the Canadians. Canada responded quickly with a 19 – 7 run and headed for the victory.

Alyssa Jerome was the top performer for the Canadians with a 22 point, 10 rebounds double-double. In a lost cause, Oppenheimer was the top scorer for the Boricuas with 14 points.

Mexico ended the first round of the FIBA Americas U18 Women’s Championship with the third position of Group B after defeating the host, 75-65. Mexico had a better start and the host had to play catch-up during the whole game. Taking advantage of Chile’s 32 turnovers the Mexicans headed to the win.

The top scorer for Mexico was Ornella Rivera with 20 points.

With their participation in the Semi-Finals of the FIBA Americas U18 Women’s Championship, Canada, Puerto Rico, USA and Brazil will represent the Americas in the 2017 FIBA U19 World Championship.

Tomorrow in the Reclassification Round, Guatemala faces Mexico and Chile will match-up against Venezuela. Meanwhile on the Semi-Finals, USA will take on Puerto Rico, and Canada will face Brazil, the winners will go on to play for the Gold.

FIBA