Mexico earns trip to the AmeriCup Final Four in Córdoba

MEDELLIN (FIBA AmeriCup 2017) - The Mexican team that came out at AmeriCup’s second day were completely different from the one that played at the tournament's inauguration. They did win their first game, but 24 hours later they reassured why they're the favorites to take Group A.

The Mexican earned a trip to AmeriCup’s Final Four, thanks to their smooth 99-76 victory against Brazil at the beginning of the second day of the group that's facing off at Medellin.

“We now have a different mindset. The coach told us to play offensively. As for the defense, we know that we always must be strong,” said Francisco “Paco” Cruz, Shooting Guard for the Aztec squad.

Mexico had a well-balanced offense, with five players reaching double digits. Cruz and Lorenzo Mata led the offense with 17 points each.

“We've yet to play our best game. We’ll watch the video of today’s game. I think that there's still room for much improvement,” said Cruz, whose team will close the Group Phase in a game against Colombia on Sunday. A Mexican victory will take them to the September 2 Semi-Final.

“We have to go to tomorrow’s game thinking it's like a Final, just like we did yesterday and today. I believe that's what will give us the attitude to play both the defense and the offense,” Cruz pointed out.

Meanwhile, Coach Sergio Valdeolmillos seemed satisfied with his players’ performance, especially the defense’s.

“Things have turned out well for us. This is the Mexico that nears the defense level we've been seeing for the past five years,” the Spanish coach commented.

The Brazilian side once again suffered their lack of experience, repeating the experience they had with the Colombians, although they did tightly win that game. In turn, they didn't have much chance against Mexico during the second half.

“We're a really young team, with little experience. We played a good first half, but then came the 15-point difference and we despaired,” regretted Fulvio de Assis, Point Guard for the Verdeamarela.

For his part, Coach César Guidetti explained: “It was a difficult game. We must overcome this because we need the victory tomorrow.”

As a matter of fact, Brazil will close the Group Phase in a game against Puerto Rico. The ticket to the Final Four is practically impossible, but the game is essential to qualify for the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima.

“Puerto Rico are a very aggressive and physical team. We have to grasp what happened today,” said 36-year old De Assis, who acknowledged that this tournament has been a learning experience for the group.

“Without a doubt, especially for the younger players. We have to grow in each game.”

FIBA