Kenny Atkinson, Dominican Republic fall to Mexico in FIBA Americas opener

The FIBA Americas tournament began on Monday and Kenny Atkinson's Dominican Republic team dropped their first game falling to Mexico by a score of 84-68. Edgar Sosa led the Dominicans with 18 points and four assists. Mexico's Orlando Mendez led all scorers with 24 points including six made three-pointers. Former Hawks center Gustavo Ayon logged a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds.

Slow starts to both halves proved costly for the Dominican Republic. They trailed Mexico 24-13 at the end of the first quarter, but were able to close the gap to 36-31 at the half. Mexico took control of the game for good in the third outscoring the Dominicans 30-15 before cruising home for the victory.

Group play continues on Tuesday with the Dominican Republic taking on Brazil at 6:50 p.m. ET. Brazil dropped their opener to Uruguay 71-57. Venezuela opened the tournament with a win over Cuba while Argentina outlasted Puerto Rico 91-86.

Dominican Republic First Round Schedule:

Monday, August 31
Dominican Republic 66, Mexico 84

Tuesday, September 1
Brazil vs Dominican Republic - 6:50 p.m. ET WatchESPN

Wednesday, September 2
Dominican Republic vs Panama - 12:50 p.m. ET WatchESPN

Thursday, September 3
Uruguay vs Dominican Republic - 12:50 p.m. ET WatchESPN