Puerto Rico starts the exhibition games with a victory.

Puerto Rico defeated Macedonia 96-77 in their first of two preparation games before the Fiba Qualifying Tournament in July. Jose Juan Barea had a double double (11 points, 10 assists), David Huertas and Alex Galindo scored 15 each and two recent additions, Renaldo Balkman and Nathan Peavy ( They didn't played in Centrobasket) joined the club and gave them a big spark at both ends.  The starting point guard, Carlos Arroyo, and his backup, Andres Rodriguez,weren't available. They expect to return tomorrow in the 2nd game against Macedonia.

Nathan Peavy Scored 12 points and 8 boards

Coach, Flor Melendez, was very impressed with his roster, they beat a good Macedonia team that had players like Bo McCalebb (13 pts, 5 assist) and Pero Antic ( 19 pts and 8 boards) but one player in particular that really impressed him was forward, Nathan Peavy. Melendez said Peavy is a a true power forward , a very underrated scorer, and will help them tremendously in that aspect and also in the rebound department, which they had been lacking.

Flor Melendez, coach of Puerto Rico.

Photo credit:  Jose L. Cruz Candelaria of Primera Hora

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