Whether it’s offense or defense, Tajuan Porter is finding a way to contribute to the U.S. U-19 team’s winning ways at the 2007 FIBA U-19 World Championships in Novi Sad, Serbia.
A night after his coach singled him out for his defensive performance in a 90-81 win over Lithuania, the Ducks’ sophomore-to-be added 11 points to the U.S.’ 104-65 triumph over Brazil.
After Lithuania took a 19-18 lead at the end of the first quarter, Porter and Jonny Flynn were credited by coach Jerry Wainwright, in a release on FIBA’s Web site, with doing “an excellent job of containing their point guard.”
Porter only took four shots against Lithuania, making his only three-point attempt. He also pitched in with three steals.
In Tuesday’s win over Brazil, Porter was one of eight Americans in double figures. His 11 points tied for third-highest on the team and included 2-of-4 shooting from behind the arc.
The U.S. finishes second-round play today against France. It has already clinched a spot in Friday’s quarterfinals as one of only two unbeaten teams left in the tournament, along with Australia on the other side of the bracket. France, at 4-1, is tied for second place in its second-round group with the host nation, Serbia.
FIBA will be providing live video of the quarterfinals, semifinals, third-place and championship games at www.serbia2007.fiba.com.
The semifinals are scheduled for Saturday with the third-place and championship games set for Sunday.