HAVANA (Cuba) – The team of the Virgin Islands endured a brave demonstration from the Cuban team and earned a hard-fought 80-64 win in Group C action.

Virgin Islands won the first half, 36-32, and entered the fourth quarter with a seven-point lead, 58-51, and seemed in control. However, Cuba tried the last push in the closing minutes of the game.

Two free throws by Cuban Yoel Cubilla closed the gap, 64-60, with 4:15 to play. Cuba couldn’t find an answer to the leadership and the game from Walter Hodge, who finished the game with 22 points, eight rebounds and six assists in just over 39 minutes on the court.

A three-pointer from Stephan Adams and a dunk from Laron Smith finished the Cuban comeback.

Adams contributed 15 points and Jamaal Samuel added 13 points and six rebounds.

For Cuba, Karel Guzmán scored 14 points with six rebounds. Jasiel Rivero scored 13 points, Yoanki Mensia 11 and Cubilla eight points and seven rebounds.

Cuba and the Virgin Islands will meet again next Monday at the UVI Sports Fitness Center in Saint Thomas.

Marcos Mejías Ortiz
FIBA