USA Open 2023 FIBA Men's U16 Americas Championship With Victory Over Puerto Rico

06 June 2023

USA 96, PUR 61

The quest for an eighth straight FIBA Men's U16 Americas Championship began on Monday as the USA defeated Puerto Rico, 96-61, at Poliforum Zamná in Mérida, Mexico.

The U.S. (1-0 in Group A) improved to 7-0 all-time against Puerto Rico and 38-0 overall at the competition.

The box score is available here.

TEAM NOTES

Double-Digit Advantage: Dunking on an alley-oop, courtesy of Cayden Boozer, Tyran Stokes gave the U.S. squad a double-digit (25-15) lead late in the first quarter. The USA would maintain at least a 10-point lead for the remainder of the game.

Everyone Eats: The USA had 11 athletes score in the game against Puerto Rico, with four scoring 10-plus. The American offense found success attacking the rim with 54 points coming in the paint. Of the 39 baskets by the USA, 26 were assisted.

Hot Shot: The U.S. shot 52.0% (39-75 FG) from the floor, 29.2% (7-24 3FG) from 3-point range and 50.0% (11-22 FT) from the line. Puerto Rico shot 30.7% (23-75 FG) from the field, 42.3% (11-26 3FG) from three and 40.0% (4-10 FT) from the line.

PLAYER NOTES

Sensational Start: Darryn Peterson scored a game-high 22 points for the Americans in 23 minutes of action against Puerto Rico. It was his efforts in the first half that drove separation between the two teams. Peterson had 14 points in 13 first half minutes on 7-of-8 shooting. He also finished the game with six rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks.

Double-Double For The Double: Cameron Boozer, twin of Cayden, was the lone player for the USA to record a double-double. In 27 minutes, he scored 10 points, pulled down 11 boards, added two steals and a block.

All-Around Production: Peterson's 22 points led the U.S. scoring while Cameron Boozer's 11 rebounds were a team-high. Coming off the bench, Stokes' six assists were a team-high. Jayden Quaintance's three blocks were a game-high while three Americans (Cameron Boozer, JJ Mandaquit, Peterson) had two steals.