USA and Canada Open With Routs as the U18 Women's AmeriCup Tips Off

The favorites wasted no time making a statement on the opening day of the FIBA U18 Women's AmeriCup, with the United States and Canada both topping the century mark in lopsided wins at the Inforum.
The United States were utterly relentless against Argentina, racing out to a 28-9 first-quarter lead on the way to a 113-47 demolition in which they led for all but 24 seconds. Jordyn Palmer (185-F-2008, college: USA NT U16) set the tone with her defense, finishing with 16 points, six rebounds and a game-high seven steals in under 17 minutes, while Bella Flemings posted a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double and Sydney Savoury added 15. Santina Cherot (168-G-2009)'s 14 points were the lone bright spot for Argentina.
Canada were every bit as overwhelming against Puerto Rico, pulling away after a 2-0 deficit with an 8-0 burst and then a 19-0 run late in the first quarter to lead 37-7, eventually winning 104-40. Savannah Swords (182-F-2008) led a balanced effort with 17 points, six rebounds and four assists, Kaylen Sta Maria scored 13, Wheeler added 11 on perfect shooting and Gabriela Morash dished a team-high eight assists. Andrea Alamo top-scored for Puerto Rico with 12.
Venezuela had to work harder against the Dominican Republic, but they had the day's individual star in Astrid Inojosa. After the Dominicans briefly led in the second quarter, Inojosa drilled a go-ahead three and fueled a 7-0 run that swung the game for good, finishing with a masterful 33 points, six assists, four steals and three blocks in a 77-60 win. Alexandra Cabeza (175-F-2009) grabbed 11 rebounds and Albanys Ramirez (174-G/F-2009) added 12 points; Nathaly Santana led the Dominican Republic with 17.
Host Mexico saved the day's best comeback for last. Trailing Paraguay for more than 32 minutes, they surged after the break behind a brilliant all-around game from point guard Jimena Velazquez 22 points, nine assists and six steals to win 83-67. Aislin Tamez added 16 points, nine rebounds and three blocks, and Fernanda Campos chipped in 13 points and six assists. Giovana Gonzalez (165-G-2008) paced Paraguay with 16.