With Marcelo Huertas guiding the way, the Brazilian National Team gave its home crowd an unforgettable performance, upsetting No. 2 Spain at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, 66-65.
Huertas was the conductor of Brazil’s offense, tallying 11 points and seven assists — both of which were team-highs.
Huertas also pitched in four rebounds, as ninth-ranked Brazil took a three-point halftime lead at Carioca Arena 1 before piling on with a 19-14 third quarter.
However, Spain, which — like Brazil — lost its Olympic opener on Sunday, wasn’t about to roll over for the hosts.
Led by Pau Gasol, who finished with 13 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks, the Spaniards were able to cut Brazil’s lead to two with four minutes remaining.