Kosovo hold on for a win, Otkhmezuri dominating for Georgia

ANDORRA LA VELLA (FIBA U16 Women's European Championship 2016 Division C) - Kosovo and Georgia tipped off the Championship with wins over Wales and Gibraltar, respectively, despite some late nerves from the former.

Besjana Martinaj made it 42-33 with 80 seconds left in the game, but Wales were not done as Bethan McLoughlin scored from the line and Shona Williams stole the ball and finished a fast break to make it 37-42. Another steal by Williams was followed with a triple by McLoughlin with 24 seconds to go, but Kosovo held on for the 42-40 win in Group A.

Martinaj was the game hero with 15 points, eight rebounds and six steals. Florentina Karavidaj had a big rebounding game as she finished with 15 boards and Enisa Kamerolli had an all-round game with nine points, seven steals and five rebounds. Williams finished with 16 points and 12 rebounds for Wales.

Georgia had an easier task against Gibraltar. Their 20-4 opening quarter paved the way in a 61-46 win, and Natalia Otkhmezuri continued where she left off five days ago. The 2016 FIBA U18 Women's European Championship Division C Most Valuable Player started her U16 campaign with 23 points on 10-of-14 shooting from the field, six steals and five rebounds in 27 minutes of play. For Gibraltar, Arianne Garro had 24 points and 12 rebounds, but she also turned the ball over 14 times. Naylin Ward finished with nine points and a massive 24 rebounds.

FIBA