Guam’s start to the 2015 Pacific Games didn’t go as planned for the Men’s National team after suffering a tough loss to Tahiti 76-66 on Friday.
Guam trailed all game long but got within striking distance on multiple occasions. Though only trailing 37-32 at the half, the Tahiti team couldn’t break away from Guam until the final three minutes of the contest.
After a bucket from Willie Stinnett and free throw by Joe Blas, Guam pulled within 65-59. Tahiti then went on a run of their own, led by Ariirimarau Meuel, to cease control.
Stinnett led Guam with a game high 17 points and JP Cruz added 14.
Guam’s 6’10” big man Jonathan Galloway fouled out before the final period which gave Tahiti the size advantage. Galloway finished with 11 points.
Ariirimarau led Tahiti with 17 points.
The men’s team are right back on the court Saturday at 11 a.m. against Samoa in more Pool A action.
Opening Ceremonies are set for 7 p.m. with swimmer Jagger Stephens doing the honor of being Guam’s flag bearer.
(AP/Carlos Osorio)
