USA Basketball moves into FIBA U16 Women’s AmeriCup championship game, clubbing host Mexico, 112-50

IRAPUATO, Mexico – Looking for a berth in the final of the FIBA U16 Women’s AmeriCup, the U.S. was challenged early by Mexico. Leading by just 10 points after 10 minutes of play, the Americans fell back on strong defense once again to eventually blow out Mexico, 112-50, on Saturday night.

Despite a close first quarter, the Americans were able to cruise into a victory thanks to their strong mid-game performances. They advanced to the final against Canada Sunday at 10 p.m. EDT.

Stuffing the stat sheet for the USA was Ivanna Wilson Manyacka with 21 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Tatianna Griffin scored well with 15 points off the bench, while four other Americans entered double-figures in the score column.

For the first time all tournament the United States was truly challenged out of the gates. The Americans trailed Mexico 7-2 just two minutes into the game but captured the lead roughly three minutes later on a layup from Wilson Manyacka. She led the U.S. in the first quarter with 10 points.

“It’s awesome for them – as kids this age – with the success they’ve had, to maybe have to struggle a little,” USA coach Steve Gomez said. “Life isn’t easy. I mean, even when you’re as talented as they are, they’ve got to realize ‘Hey, we’ve got to make the best of this situation.’”

From there the Americans didn’t look back, building a 10-point lead as the quarter came to its close.

The semifinal box score.

— From USA Basketball Communications