Panama-Bahamas 78:70 at 2012 Centrobasket

Panama defeated Bahamas in Hato Rey in Day 3 of 2012 Centrobasket. Panama celebrated a 78:70 victory for the first success at the tournament. After Bahamas defeated Cuba in the opening day lost last night against Puerto Rico and the reverse of today becomes the second in a row. Panama opened the game with 23:14 and led 8-point at the halftime. Bahamas won the second period 17-16 as the board showed 39:31. The latter also produced a 20-18 burst in the third quarter and reduced to 6 points before the final period. Panama however took off 73:58 after a 10-0 rally that ended with a free throw by Joel Thesis with 3 minutes remaining. Panama allowed the opponents to cut it to 8, but managed to win the game. Josimar Ayarza (205-F-87, college: S.Mississippi) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Joel Munoz (179-PG-80) had 13. Isaac St. Rose delievered 12, whilst Daniel King (203-F-87) had 11. Kentwan Smith (203-F-91) ended up with 18 points in defeat for 1-3 record. Mitchell Johnson (196-F-85, college: Jarvis Christian) nailed 11, while Leon Cooper Jr. (188-G-91) scored 10.