The US, who have won every edition of the event and never lost a game, recorded a crushing 115-37 victory in the Group B encounter at the Union Athletic Club in Santa Fe.

De'Vion Harmon top-scored for the defending champions with 17 points as seven players reached double digits.

"Obviously, we caused a lot of disruption to their offence," said head coach Don Showalter.

"We were right there in passing lanes, and we made it pretty difficult for them. 

"I was really pleased with the way we started the second half. 

"Sometimes when you have a nice lead in the first half, you come out in the second half and don't play at a high level. 

"But, I thought the kids played a such a high level through all four quarters tonight."

In the other match in Group B, Serbia beat Mali 89-77.

Turkey, who lost to the US in the 2016 final, were beaten 76-68 by Puerto Rico in Group A, while two-time beaten finalists Australia also began with a win as they edged the Dominican Republic 73-71 in a hard-fought encounter.

Egypt overcame New Zealand 64-50 and Canada ousted Montenegro 92-67 in Group C.

In Group D, France eased to an 82-50 win over Argentina and Croatia beat The Philippines 97-75.

A further eight matches are scheduled to take place tomorrow.