PUR - Coach Meléndez brings in defence to Puerto Rico

MAR DEL PLATA (FIBA Americas Championship) - Puerto Rico have always been famous for their offensive power and effective shooters from beyond the arc.

But with Flor Meléndez' arrival something has changed for Puerto Rico.

All of the Puerto Rico players scored in a 99-66 easy win over Panama. However, the key to win the game and clinch an Olympic spot is right on the other side of the court.

The best defensive player was Daniel Santiago, who contributed six rebounds and two blocks and forced his opponents to take bad shots.

"Defence is going to be the essential for any team in this tournament. The defence we displayed tonight and the pressure we put against a Panamanian team that has very good players really helped us to be able to make some easy baskets," said the 35-year old centre.

Puerto Rico was the fourth team to win on the opening day, following three other title-contenders, Dominican Republic, Brazil and Argentina.

We have always been such an offensive team that used to concentrate a little bit more on offence than we did on defence," said Santiago, who was part of the National Team that played in Athens 2004.

"The defence that we play now allows me to stay in the paint and be able to get some blocks and rebounds, whereas before I had to chase guards and be outside. We can keep doing that the whole tournament," added the former Phoenix Suns player.

The new defensive style filled Santiago and his teammates with confidence.

"London? Right now is a lot closer than it was before. So, if we can keep it up the rest of the tournament and fight the ups and downs, we should be in good position to win one of the spots," said Santiago.

Puerto Rico will play Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina in consecutive days from Wednesday to Friday.

FIBA