MEDELLIN (FIBA AmeriCup 2017) – Mexico and Brazil started their AmeriCup 2017 campaign with important and hard-fought wins in Group A of the premier continental competition. 

Led offensively by 24 points from Alex Perez, Mexico defeated well-known rival Puerto Rico in the FIBA AmeriCup opener 69-66. The game was intense and close as a new chapter was added to the Caribbean rivalry. Puerto Rico took a slight lead, but then appeared the mystical figure of Perez and the Mexicans escaped to a comfortable lead with a 27-16 second quarter. Puerto Rico began to discount with great additions from Jorge Bryan Diaz, who had a 10-point and 11-rebound “double-double”. Mexico withstood the pressure and remained on top when time expired. Puerto Rico’s 16 turnovers proved too costly at the end of the game and the Mexicans celebrated the win.

It was down to the wire, but Brazil held back the pressure of an impressive Colombia, and achieved a 76-74 win over the host. The game was close and emotional, as a packed stadium looked to be an added impulse for the home team. Colombia had to play catch-up throughout the whole game, as Brazil was led offensively by 19 points from Leo Meindl. Colombia had opportunities of sending the game into overtime, or even shocking the opponent, but the experience of Fulvio was decisive for the Brazilian team, as he assured the win from the free-throw line. Brazil shot for a 42% from the field and won the rebounding battle 43-39.

Tomorrow on the second day of Group A, Mexico will face Brazil in a battle of unbeaten teams and Puerto Rico will meet the host, with both teams looking for their first win.

Keep up-to-date on the official event website, follow #AmeriCup2017 on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

FIBA