FORMOSA (FIBA Americas U18 Championship) - United States defeaned Venezuela 82-73 to start the 2008 FIBA Americas U18 Championship that is played in Formosa, Argentina from July 14-18.

The Venezuelans had a good start to the game winning the first quarter 23-19. Venezuela took a 17-9 lead after a 7-0 run.

In the second quarter the United States reacted with a 14-3 run to tie the game at 31 after a basket by Travis Wear with 3:19 left. In the final minute USA made a 10-0 run to have a 47-36 halftime lead.

During the rest of the game USA had a good lead, having an eight point minimum during the second half to win their first game of the tournament.

Travis Wear led USA with 15 points while Kemba Walker and Ryan Kelly netted 12 points each.

In a losing effort Emilio Cappare scored 17 points, Jorge Rondón 14 and Jonaiker Ecker 13.

On day 2 Venezuela faces Puerto Rico and USA takes on Bahamas.