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Welcome to “Good Morning, Illini Nation,” your daily dose of college basketball news from Illini beat writer and AP Top 25 voter Scott Richey. He’ll offer up insights every morning on Brad Underwood’s team and college basketball at large:
Morez Johnson Jr. and Jeremiah Fears are one win away from helping Team USA win the FIBA U18 AmeriCup title following another blowout victory Saturday against Canada. After beating their neighbors to the north 107-69, the Americans will play host Argentina at 6 p.m. Sunday for the gold medal.
Johnson and Fears both scored double-digit points in Saturday’s win against Canada. Johnson, the soon-to-be Illinois big man, finished with 10 points, while Fears, the Illini’s lone commit in the Class of 2025, had 12 points, six rebounds, two assists and two steals in 10 minutes on the court.
Johnson leads Team USA in rebounding and is averaging 8.2 points and 9.4 rebounds for the tournament. The 6-foot-9 big man is also shooting 64 percent from the field. He has a pair of double-doubles in tournament play, with 11 points and 17 rebounds in the quarterfinals against Puerto Rico and 15 points and 15 rebounds in a group phase win against Belize.
Fears is averaging seven points, 3.4 steals, 2.6 assists and 2.6 rebounds in five games, to date, in Buenos Aires. The 6-2 guard’s best game came against Belize when he put up 17 points on 50 percent shooting to go with seven steals, six assists and two rebounds.
Scott Richey is a reporter covering college basketball at The News-Gazette. His email is srichey@news-gazette.com, and you can follow him on Twitter (@srrichey).
Team USA Nearing FIBA U18 AmeriCup Victory
Morez Johnson Jr. and Jeremiah Fears are on the verge of securing the FIBA U18 AmeriCup title for Team USA after a convincing win against Canada. With a final against Argentina looming, the duo’s performance has been instrumental in the team’s success.
Outstanding Performances
Johnson and Fears showcased their skills in the victory over Canada, with Johnson contributing 10 points and Fears adding 12 points, six rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Johnson, known for his rebounding prowess, leads Team USA in this category and has been a key asset in the tournament.
Impressive Stats
Johnson’s consistency in scoring and rebounding, along with his high shooting percentage, has been crucial for Team USA. Fears, on the other hand, has been a force to be reckoned with, averaging impressive numbers in various statistical categories.
Potential Victory Ahead
With their exceptional performances, Johnson and Fears have positioned Team USA for a shot at the gold medal. The upcoming final against Argentina will test their skills and determination as they aim to clinch the championship.
Adding insight: Highlighting the individual contributions of Johnson and Fears not only emphasizes their talent but also underscores the depth and skill of Team USA as they compete on the international stage.
