CALI (Colombia) — Even without leading scorer Michael Carrera, Venezuela had no problem against Colombia. Thanks to a dominant offensive attack led by Jose Vargas and Nelson Colmenares, Venezuela defeated Colombia 80-67 to clinch their place in the 2022 AmeriCup. Vargas and Colmenares combined for 45 of Venezuela’s 80 points.

Venezuela came out the gates on fire from the field, going on an 8-0 run just two minutes into the game. Vargas started perfect from the field and scored 12 points in the first quarter. Venezuela got careless with the ball, totaling 8 turnovers 12 minutes into the game.

After Colombia’s aggressive defense and sloppy play by Venezuela, momentum shifted in Colombia’s favor. They took their first lead of the night four minutes into the second quarter and led by three until Colmenares, and Gregory Vargas hit back-to-back shots for Venezuela to take a one-point lead at the half.

While Venezuela cleaned up their sloppy play in the second half, Colombia failed to do so. Venezuela got out to a quick 8-point lead after a pair of threes from Jose Vargas and a steal and strong finish at the rim by Colmenares. After a 17-2 run by Venezuela, Colombia was down by 13. Nothing seemed to be clicking on offense for Colombia while Venezuela continued to shoot efficiently from beyond the arc.

The 13-point lead at the end of the third only grew from there as Colombia could not stop Venezuela’s Colmenares and J. Vargas. Colombia went on an 11-0 run as the fourth quarter was winding down, but it was a little too late as the game was determined much earlier in the fourth after Venezuela jumped out to a 24-point lead.

J. Vargas finished the game with 24 points on 9 for 12 shooting. Colmenares also shot with great efficiency, contributing 21 points on 10 for 13 shooting as well as adding 10 rebounds. Colmenares’ strong rebounding was instrumental in securing today’s victory as it led to 16 second chance points. Hansel Atencia led Colombia with 13 points and 3 assists.

Both teams return to action tomorrow February 22. Colombia faces Argentina at 2:30 p.m. while Venezuela, although already qualified, plays Chile at 9:10 p.m.

FIBA