CIUDAD JUAREZ (Mexico) – Venezuela’s U16 national team made history at the FIBA U16 AmeriCup by claiming the bronze medal and qualifying for its first FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup. This is an accomplishment that signals a promising future for the country’s basketball program. This milestone confirms the team’s dedication since last year; this same squad was crowned champions of the South American U15 Championship. That title was just the first step for this talented group that has successfully continued its development on the continental stage. Leading the way was shooting guard Julio Vásquez— MVP of the South American U15 Championship and an All-Star Five selection at the FIBA U16 AmeriCup. He averaged 15.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game.
Forward Kevin Gutiérrez was also key, posting 10.3 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game, earning a spot on the All-Tournament Second Team. Other notable performances include Williams Anillo (9.0 points, 50% from three-point range, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.8 steals), point guard Deiker Torres (9.7 points, 3.8 assists, and 2.2 steals), Carlos Pérez (7.5 points), and Gregori Gavidia (7.3 points). All of these players had a significant role in the team’s success.
"I always dreamed of being part of Venezuela’s national team and taking it as far as possible," Vásquez told the Venezuelan Basketball Federation. "I’m very happy with what we’ve achieved. These guys are more than teammates — they’re my brothers. This will help us keep improving.” Venezuela’s head coach, Alexis Cedres, guided the country to its first youth World Cup appearance since 2003. Venezuela previously participated in the U19 World Cups in 1995, 1999, and 2003.
We dreamed of qualifying and winning a medal because we believe in this group of players. This bronze feels like gold. We worked hard to be here. These kids deserve this and more," said Cedres.
Now that Venezuela won big at the U16 AmeriCup, the focus shifts to continued player development. The team is expected to keep improving as it takes on new challenges, possibly with the addition of rising talent, Chris Echezuria. The 15-year-old is currently standing out in Spain’s youth basketball system and is training at the academy of the renowned coach, Pablo Laso. This could have an impact on their overall trajectory. This team has already opened the door to a bright future however, the bronze medal in Ciudad Juárez is just the beginning. With the U17 World Cup on the horizon, Venezuela’s rising stars are building toward even greater ambitions — including the 2026 FIBA U18 AmeriCup and a potential return to the U19 World Cup in 2027.
FIBA