Florida, November 24: The United States made a winning start to their FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifying campaign on Thursday (November 23).
Jameel Warney had a double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds to see Jeff Van Gundy's USA past Puerto Rico 85-78 in their Group C clash in Orlando, Florida.
Reggie Hearn also contributed 17 points for five-time champions USA, who were outscored 23-17 in the first quarter but fought back.
Also bidding to qualify for the 2019 tournament in China, Argentina powered past Paraguay 96-63 and Uruguay beat Panama 86-73 in Group A.
FIBA AmeriCup 2017 MVP Jameel Warney @Fullcoursemeelz...still solid. 💪🏿 17pts & 11reb. for the big man in @usabasketball win. #FIBAWC pic.twitter.com/XQDS3j29Ec
— FIBA 🏀 World Cup (@FIBAWC) November 24, 2017
In Leon, Mexico claimed a 72-66 victory over Cuba.
In Asia, China destroyed Hong Kong 96-44 and South Korea overcame New Zealand 86-80 in Group A.
In Group C, Ahmad Ibrahim (22 points and 10 rebounds) led Lebanon past India 107-72 and Jordan thrashed Syria 109-72.
Source: OPTA