GUAM (FIBA Oceania Championship 2017) – Team Guam has defended their U18 Bronze medal in Fiji last year with a 105-70 defeat of Samoa to take out the FIBA U17 Oceania Championship 2017 Bronze Medal.

Nathaniel Kyle Gaitan scored 25 points and 6 rebounds to lead Guam, while Jahmar White added 17 points, including 3 from down town. 

Guam used their aggressive defense to overwhelm the taller Samoan players, staying in a press for most of the game, Guam used their speed to force 27 Samoan turnovers.

Gaitan was proud of his team’s preparations and effort during their game, which was rewarded with the bronze medal. 

“Feels good. We’ve been training for a while now, and it's great to see all your hard work pay off.  I’m proud to play with this team, we have a great bond.”

Gaitan had some extra motivation for today's Bronze Medal matchup.

“Coach gave us a huge pep-talk before the game, it just got to me, I took it personally and it really motivated me.”

Gaitan will cherish being able to play against the best teams across the region.

“It’s cool and a good experience. Something you don’t get to experience often, so it’s something I’ll definitely remember.”

As per FIBA’s new competition system, Guam will now move into further completion in Asia next year.

FIBA