Pan American Games Day 4: Pivec Shows Versatility for USA

LIMA, Peru – It was a dream come true for Mikayla Pivec to take the floor Tuesday, representing USA Basketball at the Pan American Games in Lima, Peru.

Back in May Pivec joined a group of elite college basketball players at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo. for Pan Am Trials. When she heard her name called, the joy was pure.

"I was really nervous when they were calling out the team," Pivec said. "When I heard my name I was super excited, and I'm thankful for the opportunities."

Determined to make the most of her selection, Pivec has continued to provide the Stars and Stripes with exactly what she has offered to her Oregon State squad the last three years: whatever the team needs, whenever it needs it.

"I love Pivec," said USA Pan American Games and Michigan State head coach Suzy Merchant. "There is so much about Mikayla's game that doesn't show up on the stat sheet. It's unbelievable everything she is able to bring to the table."

.@BeaverWBB @usabasketball coach @SuzyMerchant @MSU_WBasketball talks about 70-62 win over Argentina @Lima2019Games and @pivec10 who scored 11 points and had five boards!!! #GoBeavs pic.twitter.com/9uVfIXRDX4
— ron callan (@roncallan) August 7, 2019

One of the most versatile players in the nation, Pivec is poised for an outstanding senior season this winter. That upcoming campaign only looks brighter after the guard gains additional high level experience playing with the national team.

"To play against these types of experienced, veteran players can only help me moving forward," Pivec said. "It's been a really good experience to play against a lot of different styles, and players who understand the game at a high level. I think it will help me become a better player moving forward."

The rising senior wasted little time making her mark in the Stars and Stripes, earning a start in the USA's first game of the event and scoring her team's first basket. Pivec has started all three games for America in the group phase, helping the team go 3-0. She is averaging 6.3 points per contest, while shooting 46 percent from the floor.

Her success comes as no surprise to her Beaver teammates, as well as alums of the program, who have followed her game closely over the last few years.

"I love the way Mikayla plays," said Beaver great Ali Gibson, who is currently playing with Puerto Rico. "Her game could adapt anywhere, because she's so tough and so selfless as a player. She really does everything."

?? First win with @usabasketball at the Pan American Games!#GoBeavs pic.twitter.com/zlIE5cs53b
— Oregon State WBB (@BeaverWBB) August 7, 2019

Pivec's Pan American Games experience has also provided her unique opportunities to work alongside teammates she would not have otherwise have played with.

"I'm really enjoying having the opportunity to play with this group," Pivec said. "They are some of the better players we play against in the NCAA, and it's a lot of fun. Getting to know them has been fun and they are great people to play with."

And with many Oregon State fans following in Corvallis and around the nation, Pivec appreciates all of the support provided to her by those in Beaver Nation.

"Thank you to Beaver Nation for all of your support," Pivec said. "All four of us know that you are following us every step of the way, and I'm looking forward to another exciting season back in Corvallis."

Recapping Day 4 at the Pan American Games
The USA came away victorious 62-59 in a back-and-forth semifinal battle with Puerto Rico that came down to the final possession. Ali Gibson scored three points and pulled down four rebounds in the contest, while Mikayla Pivec finished with five rebounds and two points. The USA will advance to the gold medal game Saturday vs. Brazil, while Puerto Rico will play Colombia for bronze.

Canada fell to Argentina 59-54 in the fifth-place game to end their run at the Pan American Games. Both Oregon State alums had strong games, combining for 16 points and 23 rebounds. Ruth Hamblin netted eight points on 4-for-8 shooting, and also tallied 12 rebounds and three blocks. Jamie (Weisner) Scott finished with eight points, 11 rebounds, two steals and two assists.

Remaining Schedule of Oregon State Players at Pan-American Games
All times listed PT

Saturday – Aug. 10
4 p.m. – Bronze Medal Game – Puerto Rico (Gibson) vs. Colombia
7 p.m. – Gold Medal Game – USA (Pivec) vs. Brazil

Season tickets for the 2019-20 season at on sale now, and can be purchased here or by calling 541-737-2050.

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Pan American Games Day 4: Pivec Shows Versatility for USA

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