Bahamas through to semi-finals of FIBA Americas Pre-Olympic Qualifying Tournament after 101-89 win over Argentina
The Bahamians overcame a 12-point deficit at the end of the first quarter to enter halftime with a 55-53 lead.
From there, they built on their advantage to lead 82-67 after the third quarter before completing a 101-89 win.
Ayton, the 25-year-old Phoenix Suns Center, shot 11-16 from the field on the way to a 22-point performance. The big man also recorded 15 rebounds, three blocks and two steals.
Eric Gordon, who will be Ayton’s teammate in Phoenix this upcoming NBA season, had a game-high 24 points while Indiana Pacers sharp-shooter, Buddy Hield hit four three-pointers on the way to a 23-point night while also getting six rebounds and three assists.
Travis Munnings also had himself an excellent game, shooting a perfect 8-8 from the field to finish with 20 points and four rebounds.
Nicolas Brussino led the way for the 2004 Olympic Gold medalists with 21 points and seven rebounds while Facundo Campazzo had a double-double with 18 points and assists.
The Bahamians are now through to the semi-finals of the tournament after winning their two group phase games.
The semifinals are Saturday and the finals are Sunday. Bahamas must win the tournament to advance to next year’s FIBA Olympic qualifying tournaments July 2-7, 2024.