LAS VEGAS (2007 FIBA Americas Championship) - Panama notched its first win of the tournament, improving to 1-2 overall by knocking off Mexico 95-90 to tip-off day three of action at the 2007 FIBA Americas Championship.

The back-and-forth affair wasn’t decided until the final minute, when missed three-pointers and made free throws would prove to be the difference.

Trailing 92-88 with one minute remaining, Mexico’s Romel Beck canned a jumper to shave the deficit to two. Panama’s Danilo Pinnock then converted one-of-two free throws at the other end to push the lead back to three, 93-90.

With time winding down, Mexico’s Anthony Pedroza was freed up by a screen to get a good look at the game-tying three-pointer, but his shot was off the mark.

Panama’s Jaime Lloreda pulled down the rebound and was fouled. He would hit both free throws to ice it for the Panamanians.

Pinnock’s game-high 30 points led the victors, who also got strong contributions from Lloreda (19 points) and Enrique Garcia (13 rebounds).

Beck’s 20 points were tops for Mexico, which fell to 1-1 in tournament play.

Tim Kuck
USA Basketball