PATILLAS (2017 FIBA Americas U16) – Puerto Rico was crowned Champion of the 2016 Centrobasket U15 Championship after defeating the Dominican Republic in the gold-medal match. Meanwhile, Mexico took a spot in the podium after surpassing Panama for the Bronze Medal.

Puerto Rico had a better start and during the first quarter took a slight lead. After a 10-3 start at the second quarter, Puerto Rico grew its advantage to 13 points, 27-14. Dominicana rebounded and with a 14-5 run, cut the lead to six points, 45-39. Tension boiled over an unsportsmanlike and technical foul were called on the Dominican Republic, the Boricuas took advantage and at the end of the third the host had a nine point lead, 56-47. After exchanging baskets, Puerto Rico created a 6-0 run and went ahead 69-56, with 3:15 to go. Dominicana cut the difference to 5 with 18 seconds to go. Puerto Rico kept adding and celebrated the win and the championship. 

Mexico took home the Bronze Medal and the last ticket to the 2017 FIBA Americas U16 Championship after defeating Panama, 100-46. Mexico had better rhythm from the start and took a 24-7 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Mexicans kept adding with great offensive effectiveness and great rotation on defense. Panama kept fighting, but Mexico won the remaining quarters in commanding fashion to take the win.

Costa Rica claimed fifth place of the Centrobasket U15 Championship after defeating Trinidad and Tobago, 90-68. Costa Rica controlled the scoreboard from early on and kept adding to the lead, to take the win.

With their top-three performance at the Centrobasket U15 Championship, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Mexico qualified to the 2017 FIBA Americas U16 Championship.

Centrobasket U15 Championship Final Positions:
1. Puerto Rico
2. Dominican Republic
3. Mexico
4. Panama
5. Costa Rica
6. Trinidad and Tobago
7. Guyana

FIBA