Lille, France(AP) : The Canadian men’s basketball team continued their unbeaten run at the 2024 Summer Olympics with a nail-biting 88-85 victory over Spain. The win not only secured Canada’s top spot in Group A but also marked the elimination of Spain, the world’s No. 2 ranked team and a three-time medalist in the past four Olympics.
The game was a showcase of Canada’s depth and resilience, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the team with 20 points. Andrew Nembhard contributed 18 points, most of them in a stellar second-half performance. Gilgeous-Alexander also assisted RJ Barrett in hitting a crucial three-pointer late in the game, maintaining Canada’s narrow lead. Spain’s Dario Brizuela put up a valiant effort with 17 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Canadian squad.Olympic basketball
Despite leading 49-38 at halftime, Canada faced a strong comeback from Spain in the second half. With just 2.7 seconds remaining, Sergio Llull’s three-pointer cut Canada’s lead to a single point. However, Gilgeous-Alexander sealed the game with two free throws, securing Canada’s perfect 3-0 record in group play.
Head coach Jordi Fernandez praised his team’s performance but acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly in rebounding and maintaining discipline. “We were a little loose with our execution, and we were not good with rebounding throughout the game. But we found a way,” Fernandez stated. He emphasized that the team’s experience, including their recent World Cup run, is helping them grow and succeed on the international stage.
Olympic basketball
Canada’s victory places them in the quarterfinals, with their opponent to be determined after Saturday’s draw. Potential matchups include France, led by the towering 7-foot-5 Victor Wembanyama, or Serbia, featuring three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic. Both teams pose significant challenges, but Canada aims to continue their strong showing and compete for a medal.Olympic basketball
In other Olympic action, Giannis Antetokounmpo led Greece to a crucial 77-71 victory over Australia, keeping their quarterfinal hopes alive. Meanwhile, Germany delivered a dominant performance against host nation France, defeating them 93-69. Victor Wembanyama had 14 points and 12 rebounds for France, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Germany’s balanced attack.
As the Olympic basketball tournament progresses, Canada’s men’s team remains focused on their goal of medaling, carrying the momentum from their undefeated group stage into the knockout rounds.
Read Also :
Supervivientes All Stars Concludes with Marta Peñate’s Triumph
Olympic Football : Argentina’s Rollercoaster Start at Paris 2024
