ULAANBAATAR (Mongolia) - Team USA (men) and Spain (women) showed out as they picked up crucial wins on Day 2 of the FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup 2024 on September 12. 

TEAMS

USA (men)

The American freshmen represented well as they went unbeaten on day 2.

They took no time in finding their style on the court as their high-flying ability was on full display. They took down Chile in their opener 20 - 10 with Jameer Nelson Jr. leading the way with 9 points. Alex Fudge provided athleticism while John Butler was key on the defensive side. 

They faced a strong Lithuania side next and swept past their competition yet again. A 21 - 13 victory this time with Fudge making a statement with 10 points. His impact was felt not only on the scoresheets but also on the tone the team set as they wrapped up the day with a 2-0 record. 

The Dutch also went perfect on the day with wins over Benin and China. 

SPAIN (women)

The young Spaniards showed out to start their pool action as they picked up two impressive wins.

They started with a 21 - 12 result against a contending Italian side. Maria Roters led her side in scoring with an 8-point game. 

They went up against New Zealand next where the team dealt with early adversity. Finding themselves on the losing side of things thanks to a monstrous effort from Arielle Mackey-Williams, Spain fought back with a 15-point tandem effort from Claudia Contell and Begoña De Santiago. A barrage of twos pulled them ahead before Roters called game.

Team USA and the Netherlands also went unbeaten on the women’s side as they set themselves up for a clearer path to Day 5. 

PLAYERS

Alex Fudge (men)

A highlight machine, the American grabbed the spotlight with his stellar display in both games. 

He was the exclamation mark for team USA in their opener against Chile. He took it to the next level

with a 10-point display in their game against a strong Lithuanian side. 

 His athleticism and intensity will be key to the team’s success as action continues Liz 

Maria Roters (women)

The Spaniard was the difference maker for her side in their 2-0 display on Day 2. She led in scoring in their opener against Italy with 8 points, a superb offensive display inside the arc. 

She followed it up with clutch buckets in a comeback win against New Zealand, including the game winner. 

Spain will need Roters to keep her momentum going heading into the second half of pool play. 

DAY 3

Pool A and C conclude their action tomorrow as we find our first set of teams confirmed for Day 5 action. You don’t wanna miss the action!