USA – Tibbetts’ team treasures NT experience

GUADALAJARA (Pan American Games) - There is no feeling better than putting the letters U.S.A. on your chest.

That was the opinion of a couple of bronze-medal winners for the United States at the Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Justin Dentmon, who plays for the NBDL's Texas Legends, competed for the USA and had nine of his 12 points in the fourth quarter of the 94-92 triumph over the Dominican Republic that put Nate Tibbetts' American team on the podium.

"It means a lot to even come here and play," Dentmon said.

"I’m blessed to be able to say I played for an American team and I’ll remember this for the rest of my life."

Blake Ahearn, who plays for the Erie BayHawks, was among the leading players for the USA.

He didn’t want to leave Mexico without a medal.

"It means a lot," he said.

"Obviously, it’s not what we wanted.

"We were coming for the gold medal, but for guys who have been together for two weeks, we competed hard, we played well together, and we fought through some tough times.

"It’s a great group of guys in this locker room, coaching staff, players.

"We all got along and it was a great experience and we’ll remember it forever."

Tibbetts, who coaches the Tulsa 66ers in the NBDL, was as proud as he has ever been.

The team had highs and lows.

They enjoyed a terrific comeback victory against Brazil, but also suffered a heavy defeat to hosts Mexico in the Semi-Finals.

Tibbetts believes the USA shirt will be treasured by each of the players.

"All of these guys will probably frame that USA jersey down the line and it will be nice to frame it with a bronze medal," he said.

Tibbetts says both the coaches, and players, were exposed to a style of basketball they were not accustomed to.

"Coming in we didn’t know how it as going to be, but it just proves that the basketball around the world is getting better and better," he said.

"It was great for our guys to see a lot of things.

"It’s a totally different game than what these guys are used to.

"The international game is a lot about spacing and movement and it was a great eye opener for all of us."

FIBA