June 28, 2010

Columbia, Mo. - University of Missouri signee Tony Mitchell (Dallas, Texas / Pinkston) has helped lead Team USA's U18 squad to a dominating 2-0 start through the first two rounds of preliminary play at the 2010 FIBA Americas U18 Championship this weekend in San Antonio, Texas.

Mitchell is averaging 9.5 points and 7.5 rebounds in 17 minutes a contest for the Americans, who have defeated the U.S. Virgin Islands (131-63) and Mexico (114-38) thus far.

"We played good, especially when we dominated in every aspect of the game, rebounding, scoring, assists and everything," Mitchell said. "We just tried to play as a unit and keep them under 50 (points) because we let the Virgin Islands score a lot of points yesterday. That's what we were trying to do, play good defense."

The Dallas native has shown great defense thus far in the Championships, highlighted by a team-best four blocked shots. The versatile forward also has three assists in two games and has yet to commit a turnover.

It's been a tremendous experience for Mitchell representing his country, one made even more special since he is playing in his home state.

"Oh yeah," Mitchell said. "My mom, my high school coach and all my family is here to watch me play."

And that play will continue on Monday night at 7 p.m. vs. the defending U18 Champion, Argentina. Like Team USA, Argentina is 2-0, including a 78-53 win over Mexico in the opener and an 82-50 win over the Virgin Islands.

"It's going to be the same thing," Mitchell said about Team USA's approach to Monday night. "We're not too worried about it. It's a better team than the first two we've had, but we're ready to play."

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