Mexico ended their FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 campaign on a positive note, defeating Jordan, who failed to secure a single victory during their time in the Philippines. Mexico concluded the tournament with a 2-3 record after a convincing 93-80 win on Saturday night.
Throughout most of the game, Mexico held the lead, but Jordan made a strong comeback at the beginning of the final quarter. Thanks to two assists from Rondae Hollis Jefferson, Jordan took a 76-73 lead with six minutes remaining.
Whatever instructions coach Omar Quintero shared with his team during the timeout had a significant impact. In the last five minutes of the game in Manila, Mexico intensified their defense, keeping Jordan from scoring for three crucial minutes.
This defensive effort allowed Mexico to regain the lead, especially due to the effective Paul Stoll – Joshua Ibarra pick-and-roll play, complemented by Fabian Jaimes.
Rondae Hollis Jefferson came close to achieving the first-ever triple-double in FIBA Basketball World Cup history, recording 26 points, 10 assists, and 8 rebounds. He was fouled 11 times during the game.
Watch the game highlights between Jordan and Mexico in the First Round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023:
