FIBA
Photo: FIBA

USA, Argentina and Canada were victorious in their respective matches and now are close to securing their qualification to the 2019 World Cup.

A 16-2 run in the fourth quarter was enough for the Americans to beat Panama by 30 points (48-78) and improve their record to 7-1.

Reggie Hearn led the team in scoring with 12 points, while 11 of the 12 USA players scored.

On the other hand, Javier Carter was the best player for Panama (3-5) and scored 16 points.

Argentina dominated Puerto Rico at home (106-84) and claimed their second straight win in September’s WC Qualifiers (7-1).

Nicolás Laprovittola and Gabriel Deck scored 21 points each for the winners, with team captain, Luis Scola, adding 20 points and nine rebounds.

José Juan Barea contributed 24 points and five assists for the losing squad (5-3 record).

Canada cruised to an easy win over Chile on the road (61-84) and remained on top of Group F (7-1). This was the sixth straight victory for the Canadians.

Joel Anthony played very well on both ends of the floor, with 17 points, five rebounds and three blocks. Brady Heslip added 12 points and Justin Jackson 10 for the winners.

On the contrary, Franco Morales had 17 points and five assists for the losing squad, who remained last (1-7). Felipe Haase contributed 11 points and six boards.

Uruguay edged Mexico at home (63-60) and remained alive in the qualification race (5-3).

Esteban Batista led the way for the hosts, with 18 points and eight rebounds. Luciano Parodi added 15 points, six rebounds and five assists.

For Mexico, who have won only three of their eight matches so far (3-5), Gustavo Ayón scored 21 points and grabbed eight boards.