3x3 - Girls' reigning champs Spain off to perfect start

ALCOBENDAS - Spain showed why they are the title holders in the Girls Tournament on the opening day of the FIBA 3x3 U18 World Championships, presented by Nike.

The Spaniards made the most of the home court advantage to see off Switzerland, Estonia and Jordan quite comfortably and top Group A.

Their task will be tougher on Saturday when they go up against France and Turkey.

The USA, Australia, Czech Republic and Italy - who lost in the Final to Spain last year in Rimini - are the other teams that finished Day 1 with perfect 3-0 marks.

Romania was something of a surprise package as they beat Canada and England while also pushing Australia close to the edge to finish the day with two wins and one loss.

Lithuania's girls showed it isn't just the men and boys in their country who live for basketball as they edged out China and Chinese Taipei to stand second in Group B behind the USA.

The Girls Tournament in particular is seeing some players return for their second FIBA 3x3 U18 World Championships.

Among them are Astou Ndour, who is leading the charge for Spain and the USA's Kaela Davis - who went on a scoring frenzy in a Semi-Final against Italy in 2011.

"It feels great to be out here and play this fast-pace game again. It's fun," said Davis.

"Having played last year helps to understand this game. So many people come to it and don't understand how fast it is and how quickly things can change."

FIBA