MEXICO CITY (2015 FIBA Americas Championship) - The Mexican fans left the Palacio de los Deportes full of enthusiasm following their team's victory over the Dominican Republic on Day 1 of the 2015 FIBA Americas Championship.

They had more reasons to celebrate on Wednesday night, as Mexico improved to 2-0 with a 65-58 win over Brazil.

Hector Hernandez has averaged 9.0 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists in the two wins.

The forward talked about his feelings of playing in front of the home fans and his desire to qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games of Rio de Janeiro. 

fiba.com/Americas2015: How do you think the team did in its debut?
Hernandez: The team played well. We knew that the game against the Dominican Republic would not be easy, because it is a very hard rival, despite the absence of some prominent players. It is always important to win the first game. It allows you to add a lot of confidence. The key was the solid defense and that allowed us to have rhythm on offense.

fiba.com/Americas2015: How much influence does it play to have the fans in your favour?
Hernandez: A lot. Having the fans supporting us in every game is a plus for us. It is the force that motivates us. They are the team's sixth man. We are aware of what is expected of us because of everything the Mexican team has accomplished in the last two years. We know that fighting for the title of the tournament will not be easy, but we are at home and that gives us confidence to face any challenge.

fiba.com/Americas2015: What does the team need to improve in the next games?
Hernandez: We need to continue to improve on our defensive task, which is what characterises us. Coach [Sergio] Valdeolmillos made us understand that defense is the key, and with it we can aspire to do everything. Here, all the teams are tough, there is no easy opponent. Despite the absences, the championship is level and several teams will battle for the Olympic qualification. We have to play the 40 minutes of every game as a team, together, to maintain the level. We will leave everything on the court, I have no doubt about that.

fiba.com/Americas2015: Do you dream of qualifying for the Olympics?
Hernandez: To be in the Olympics is a dream for any player and this team is fighting for that. We have the desire, we have that on our mind and we will work for that. The road is long, but we are confident. Being in the Olympics will mean a lot for Mexican basketball, and it will help as a mirror for many young players to develop with that aspiration.

fiba.com/Americas2015: There is a great commitment of your generation with the Mexican national team?
Hernandez: We have confidence in Sergio (Valdeolmillos) and he asks us to be united on and off the court. He led us here, he was our captain and helped us transcend. This group has been together for a long time, we have a good relationships and we feel comfortable together. We are a family and it shows in every game.

Go to fiba.com/Americas2015 for full coverage of the 2015 FIBA Americas Championship.

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