A pair of San Antonio Spurs began round two of the 2011 FIBA Americas as Manu Ginobili and Argentina defeated Cory Joseph and Canada 79-53 on Monday evening in Mar del Plata, Argentina.
After holding Canada to just nine points in the first quarter (21-9), Argentina used the 11-point cushion throughout the game as they took a 37-22 lead into halftime. Canada would win the scoring battle in the third quarter 21-17 but Argentina still led 54-43 at the end of three.
The fourth quarter was all about Argentina’s defense as they forced Canada into turnovers and bad shot attempts. Argentina outscored Canada 25 to 10 in the final period to take the 26 point victory in the opening game of round two.
Ginobili finished with 16 points, six rebounds, five assists, and three steals in 27 minutes of action. Former Spur Fabricio Oberto ended the game with 15 minutes of playing time while producing two points, six rebounds, one steal, and even one block with his time on the floor. Argentina was led by Houston Rockets’ Luis Scola’s 22 points and six rebounds.
Joseph went scoreless for Canada as he went 0-for-5 from the field and grabbed three rebounds, one steal, and one block in 20 minutes. Canada was led by Kelly Olynyk’s 19 points and 12 rebounds. Argentina did a great job defensively as only two of Canada’s players got into double figures.
On Tuesday, Joseph and Canada will begin the day as they face Dallas Mavericks’ J.J. Barea and Puerto Rico. Ginobili and Argentina will take the floor afterward as they face Memphis Grizzlies’ Greivis Vasquez and Venezuela.
(Photo: Yahoo Sports)
