Peachtree Hoops: 2011 FIBA Americas Championship: Argentina Hammers The Dominican Republic 84-58 To Close Out Group Play

[Hawksquawk]

The Dominican Republic closed out group play with a disappointing 84-58 loss to tournament favorite Argentina on the final day of group play. John Calipari's club looked like a tired team as they entered the fourth quarter of Thursday's game trailing Argentina by a manageable nine points only to be outscored 26-9. Even with the loss, the Dominican Republic still earns a spot in the semifinals this weekend where they will take on Brazil Saturday. 

Al Horford finished with 16 points and eight rebounds while Francisco Garcia chipped in 12 points for the Dominican Republic. Jack Michael Martinez finished with eight points and 11 rebounds. 

Luis Scola led Argentina with a game-high 25 points and seven rebounds. Manu Ginobli added 17 points and five assists while Carlos Delfino chipped in 16 points and eight boards. 

According to NBA.com's John Schuhmann, Brazil captures the top seed in the semifinals after defeating Puerto Rico on Thursday. They will face off against the No. 4 seeded Dominican Republic on Saturday. The other semifinal will be between Argentina and Puerto Rico also on Saturday.  

Saturday's winners will be headed to the 2012 London Olympics and the two losers will earn spots in the last chance qualifying tournament to be held next summer. Venezuela finished in fifth place after defeating Uruguay on Thursday and also earns a spot in the last chance tournament. 

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