Make it a perfect 3-0 start at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup for Canada, which finishes atop Group H with a dominant 101-75 victory over Latvia.
It was again a tale of two halves as Canada was dominant after a slow start to the game, trailing by as many as 12 points in the first half. To no surprise, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way, finishing with 27 points in the game after scoring just eight points in the first half.
This Canada team is looking great this year. Can’t wait to watch them play Spain in the second round.
Good to see from Canada.
I was surprised to see Latvia beat Les Bleus (France), less so their beating the Cedars (Lebanon) - who have a decent squad. Group H was just a really competitive first round group!
The final score doesn’t reflect how dominant Latvia was today against Canada. Latvia showed off their 3-point shooting, as expected. But they also penetrated very effectively, either drive and kick or laying it up at the rim. I think their captain is out for the rest of the tournament, unfortunately.
Kelly Olynyk was key to keeping us in this game the first half, before Shai found his groove in the second half and so did our defence. I believe Lu Dort is scheduled to come back for Friday’s (09:30 ET) game, which is awesome! His defence and size has been missed. Canada’s fell behind at the start of all three games. They’re going to want to tidy that up as the competition picks up! I’d love to see us run some drive and kicks!