USA rolls into 2025 FIBA U16 Women’s AmeriCup knockout stage after going 3-0 in Group A play

IRAPUATO, Mexico – Closing out group play against Argentina at the FIBA U16 Women’s AmeriCup on Wednesday, June 18, the United States once again took down their opponent in dominant fashion. Relying on tough defense, the Americans built up a 32-point halftime lead which proved insurmountable for Argentina in the second half. With the 101-46 win, the USA has clinched the first seed in Group A as they advance to the quarterfinals on Friday.

The USA was led by Eve Long with 17 points, followed by Micah Ojo with 15 while Ivanna Wilson Manyacka scored 11 to go along with nine rebounds.

The United States were defensive pests in both prior group play games this week, and that trend continued from the tip against Argentina. While the full court defensive pressure didn’t result in as many turnovers from Argentina as in previous games, the Americans’ half-court defense remained stout and held Argentina to just six first quarter points.

To build out a lead on the other end, the USA rallied for an early 22-0 run behind a quick 11 points for Long. Ojo also got going with seven points while Olivia Jones added in six.

“I slowed down and got out of my head,” Long said. “In the past few games I think I was in my own head, and I just slowed down and played my own game.”

Leading 27-6 going into the second quarter, the team offense started to surge, as seven Americans scored their first points in the quarter. The variety in scoring helped keep the lead growing while the defense of the Americans remained a strong suit.

The final box score.

— From USA Basketball Communications