FIBA U19 World Championship: IRI/USA - Slow start, but USA turn on the power

After a tense opening that saw the USA lead by just two, 14-12, with less than three minutes remaining in the first period, 203cm power forward John Shurna made the running for the USA, scoring seven points as his team went on a 16-1 run to finish the quarter in control, 30-13.

It would prove the decisive movement of the match as the USA went on to lead by 28 at half time and 42 at three quarter time, rotating their full bench to cruise to a 106-55 victory.

Iranian point guard Elmad Salmani started the scoring for the tournament with a three point basket after just 41 seconds of play. US forward Gordon Hayward responded inside the paint on the next play after collecting an offensive rebound, and the USA took their first lead, 6-4, on a two point basket from captain Shelvin Mack with 7:03 remaining.

Shurna recorded 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Tyshawn Tayler scored 13 points on 6/7 shooting to lead seven USA players in double figures. The USA tomorrow play France in what should be their first true test of the world championship.

For Iran, Mohammad Hassanzadeh scored 17 points and captain Arsalan Kazemi recorded 15 points, 7 steals and 4 rebounds . Their next opponent is African U18 Champion Egypt, a match-up that is likely to determine which team progresses to the second round.

Jamie Dixon (USA) said:

“It was a good win for us, a good start for us. I think we did some things pretty well. We rebounded well, which is something that’s been a problem for us.

“I was impressed with the way Iran played. They battled all the way until the end and still made some big shots at the end.

“I think we’re going to play a lot of guys. We’re always going to use all 12 guys. Fatigue should not be a problem.”