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Guam fell to Australia in the semifinals 12-11 on a buzzer beater after Australia had banked in the game winner with just over three seconds left. Guam lost to Australia in pool play after leading by six points and nearly came away with the win in the semifinals. Guam battled Papua New Guinea for 3rd place where they won 21-14.
Australia ended up beating New Zealand in the finals 20-19.
“It was a great game and we battled hard,” said Guam’s Joe Blas. “The Australians were skilled and it was a back and forth between both teams. One play could’ve made the difference and fortunately for them, that offensive rebound bounced their way and they found an open man on top of the free throw line for a buzzer beater.”
“It was a great experience for everyone on Team Guam and we represented well and showed these big countries that we have skills to play with them. It just seems the ball didn’t bounce our way in the big game, but I’m happy everyone got out with any major injuries,” said Guam’s William Stinnett.
The overall experience was such a success that Guam’s participation in global 3×3 competition will be a mainstay.
“Our overall experience was an awesome one. The organizing committee and its members did an amazing job with the accommodations and venue 3×3 is a rising format and one that Guam is looking forward to advancing into one of the top teams in the region. Playing against our Oceania brothers and sisters is always a battle, especially when Australia and New Zealand are involved,” added Seve Susuico.
(AP/Carlos Osorio)
