PARIS — In a tightly contested match, Team USA defeated Spain 66-56 in their opening game of the Paralympic tournament at Bercy Arena on Thursday afternoon. This victory marks another win for the U.S. against Spain, who they previously faced twice this summer, winning both encounters by scores of 61-57 and 70-65.
Team USA’s Trevon Jenifer praised the competition, stating, “We’re talking about the best of the best right now. This is the biggest tournament we have, so we had to come out and take care of business. Spain gave us some really good play for our first game.”
The game started with both teams exchanging baskets, creating a competitive atmosphere early on. Jake Williams helped the U.S. gain the lead by scoring consecutive three-pointers, bringing the score to 10-6 less than four minutes into the contest. Following a rebound basket from Jennifer, Spain responded with a three-pointer, reducing the deficit to just one point but ultimately finished the first quarter trailing 18-17.
Williams was a standout player, scoring eight points and contributing two rebounds and two assists in the first quarter alone.
In the second quarter, the scoring continued to be tight. Jenifer quickly added points, and Spain briefly took the lead midway through the period. However, a timely bank shot from Bell put the Americans back ahead at 24-23. The U.S. managed to maintain a slim lead, heading into halftime with a 32-29 advantage.
Steve Serio, a five-time Paralympian and team captain, acknowledged Spain’s strength, noting, “Spain is an all-world team. We knew that Spain always brings it. They are not an opponent that you can overlook. We definitely have a lot of room to grow, but we’ll go back and look at the game tape and get better.”
Team USA began to create separation in the third quarter, with Serio scoring during an and-one play to extend their lead to 36-29. Despite Spain’s efforts to stay close, the Americans extended their lead further, finishing the quarter ahead 46-40.
In the final period, Spain made a late surge, narrowing the gap to one possession with just over six minutes remaining. However, Team USA managed to hold on to their lead and secured their victory with the final score of 66-56.
Williams led Team USA with 22 points and seven assists, emphasizing the significance of starting strong. “Everyone’s excited to get the first game going,” he said. “We play Spain a lot at these tournaments, so we know what to expect.”
This victory positions Team USA favorably as they prepare for their next group stage match against the Netherlands on Saturday at 10 a.m. ET.