FIBA Americup 2017: USA tops Argentina, bags gold

Cordoba, Argentina – The finals of the FIBA Americup 2017 came to an epic showdown between two of the region’s fiercest competitors. The stage was set and the tournament would be decided by a game between the USA and Argentina. An amazing second-half comeback by the US propelled them to their seventh Americas title. This was an especially impressive win by USA Basketball, which did not field any NBA players for the first time. Coach Stan Van Gundy assembled a talented group of players from the NBA G League as well as some former pros.

United States vs. Argentina, 81-76

The game would be characterized by offense at the onset but it was the defensive effort from both squads that would dictate the tempo of the game. Argentina had the hot hand and used a fast pace to secure a commanding lead at the end of the first half.

The Americans had to come up with excellent execution and maintain their composure after the break to hurdle a 20-point deficit enjoyed by Argentina. Team USA swung the momentum in their favor by knocking down some key treys of their own while putting for some intense defensive pressure, thus limiting Argentina’s options on the offensive end of the floor. USA’s duo of Munford and Hearn supplied the shooting from downtown.

23-year-old Jameel Warney led the comeback and finished the game with 21 points and seven rebounds.

Team USA now secures its seat at the World Cup, whose qualifying games are set to begin later this year.