Formosa, Argentina — You could say the United States beat the Bahamas on Tuesday, but that would be an understatement.

The U18 National Team blew the island team away Tuesday afternoon 115-51. At one point in the second quarter, the red, white and blue led 39-5, and by halftime, the lead was 59-11.

Team defense was a big part of the blowout victory Tuesday, and the team set a new FIBA Americas Tournament record for most blocked shots in a game with 14. The previous record of 12 was also held by the United States, and it was set in 1990 against Uraguay.

The team was credited with 21 assists, forced 29 turnovers, and converted those turnovers for 17 points. 70 of the United States' 115 points came inside the paint, and 68 points came off of the bench. Decent offensive rebounding resulted in 24 second-chance points for the US on Tuesday, and the athleticism on the team allowed for 22 fast break points.

The Bahamas forced 22 turnovers against the US, but only got 2 points off of them. With the inside presence of the United States' U18 team, the Bahamas could only muster up 14 points inside the paint.

"Our teamwork and our toughness was there from start to finish," Team USA head coach Bob McKillop said on the USA Basketball web site. "We distributed the ball very well, we defended very well and the guys have really accepted the concept that defense wins championships."

Puerto Rico should present a better test for the American teenagers on Wednesday. The other islanders at the tournament are a drive, kick, and shoot team, and that will mean Team USA has to be quick on the defensive end of the ball.

Ravenscroft senior Ryan Kelly recorded 7 points, 7 rebounds, and two blocks just one day after posting a double-double in his USA Basketball debut.

The United States is now an impressive 31-1 all-time in the FIBA Americas Tournament.