Team Canada improved to a record of three wins and zero losses in Olympic men’s basketball action this week. On Friday, Canada squeaked out a win and defeated Spain 88-85. Ironically it was the exact same score where Canada defeated Spain in Group L play at the 2023 FIBA World Cup in Asia.
In Friday’s win, Oklahoma City Thunder all-star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of Toronto, Ontario led Team Canada with 20 points. He made nine of 13 free throws, five of 11 field goals, and one of four shot attempts from beyond the arc.
Three more Canadians reached double figures in points. Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard of Auora, Ontario had 18 points, Toronto Raptors shooting guard RJ Barrett of Toronto had 16 points, and Houston Rockets small forward Dillon Brooks of Mississauga, Ontario had 13 points. Denver Nuggets point guard Jamal Murray of Kitchener, Ontario, and Brooks led Canada with four rebounds each, while Murray led Canada with six assists.
Canada’s most impressive quarter against Spain was the second. There they outscored the Spaniards 30-19. Actually, it was the only quarter Canada won in the game.
Team Canada will next play in the quarterfinals. We will find out at the end of Saturday’s play who they will play.
