Canada was on the brink of elimination multiple times but survived against Spain, defeating the reigning world champions by a score of 88-85 (21-21, 27-17, 25-23, 27-12).
Despite facing a significant deficit, Canada went on a 17-4 run to start the second half and already gained a three-point lead (55-52). However, Spain answered with a 14-6 run of their own a few minutes later (69-61).
Canada evened the score in the fourth quarter once again, and the teams went back and forth for the remainder of the game.
With 92 seconds remaining, Willy Hernangomez hit two free throws to push Spain up three (80-77), but Dillon Brooks made a contested three-pointer in the next possession to tie the game (80-80).
After a successful defensive stop, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hit a stepback two to give Canada a two-point lead (82-80). Spain couldn’t convert an offensive possession, Gilgeous-Alexander hit two free throws, and Spain couldn’t come back.
Alex Abrines had a chance to tie the game with 4 seconds remaining while down 3, but his three-pointer was no good.
Gilgeous-Alexander led Canada with 30 points (7/12 FG, 14/16 FT, 4 REB, 7 AST, 3 STL). Dillon Brooks (22 PTS, 8/12 FG, 5 REB) and RJ Barrett (16 PTS, 6/12 FG, 5 REB, 4 TO) were the only ones besides SGA who scored in double digits.
Willy Hernangomez was the top scorer on Spain’s roster with 25 points (7/13 FG) and 6 rebounds.
With the loss, Spain has been eliminated from the World Cup. Canada, on the other end, advanced to the quarterfinal stage, where they will play against Slovenia.
Source : Basket News