The Round of 16 got underway in Dubai and the last eight was confirmed with some interesting match-ups in store.
The USA had no troubles in overcoming an under-sized Japan side, as the favourites won 122-38.
The States started the game by scoring the first 22 points, en route to a 41-6 first ten minutes. From there the USA won the remaining three quarters comfortably by double-digits to reach the quarter-finals.
With performances like this; it makes you wonder how Japan can be competitive for the Tokyo Olympics in 2020?
Canada had no problems overcoming Angola 106-59 to reach the quarter-finals.
Koby McEwan led the winners with 23 points as a competitive first quarter was replaced by a one-sided second period, as the Canadians hit Angola for 31 points, while holding them to seven.
France beat the Philippines 86-57 as Les Bleus built a steady lead as the game wore on.
The margin of victory was definitely a case of second half fatigue, as the Asian side were only 41-35 behind at the break. France though pulled away for the routine win.
There was some success for the Asian nations in the world championship as China scored a 79-67 win over a strong Italy side.
An impressive display from Zhao Yanhao was the key to China’s win. He amassed 32 points, 6 rebounds and 5 steals overall.
Egypt put up a fight against Puerto Rico, but the Central Americans eventually came out 86-79 victors after a session of overtime.
Puerto Rico had the chance to win it with the last shot of regularity but made amends to beat the African outsiders in the extra session.
Serbia had no troubles in beating the UAE 116-31 in a game had the Serbians name all over the victory line.
Nikola Popovic hit a double-double of 26 points and 14 rebounds for the Serbs in the win.
Isaac Humphries is proving to be one of the players of the tournament as he helped Australia to an 84-76 win over Greece.
Humphries scored 20 points and pulled 16 rebounds in the win as the Aussies look to be the closest challengers to the USA’s crown.
Spain edged past Argentina 64-57 in a thrilling game to round off the second round. Santiago Yusta hit 18 points for the Spaniards in the win.
Quarter-final line-up
USA vs China
Canada vs Serbia
Australia vs Puerto Rico
France vs Spain
