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

Kenny Atkinson's Dominican Republic squad suffered an 84-68 defeat to Mexico in their opener at the FIBA Americas.

Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

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