LA RIOJA (FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Americas Qualifiers) - Luis Scola experienced the high of playing in front of more than 10,000 screaming fans on the opening night of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Americas Qualifiers.

Scola, who is now on the books of Chinese side Shanxi Brave Dragons, led Argentina to a 96-63 victory over Paraguay before a packed Super Domo crowd in La Rioja. It was the first step towards what Scola hopes is securing a spot in the first-ever 32-team World Cup in China in 2019.

"I really like this qualifying, all the games are important," Scola said to TYC Sports. "It's a good format, a lot more emotional than the other system."

Argentina got on top of the visitors from the off and never let up. The 37-year-old Scola had 22 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists.

"We were able to play well and we won a game that obviously, we had to win. We felt comfortable. At times these games are won playing badly and being uncomfortable but it wasn't the case."

Argentina go up against Panama on Sunday. They will also take on Uruguay in Group A, but not until the February international window.

FIBA