U17 Men Defeat China 105-54, Improving To 3-0 in Group Phase

(Zaragoza, Spain)

Canada's U17 Men continue to impress at the FIBA World Championships, dominating China with a 105-54 victory in their third game of Group Phase in Zaragoza, Spain.

Starting for Canada were Rowan Barrett JR, Danilo Djuricic, Andrew Nembhard, Ignas Brazdeikis and Simisola Shittu. Click here for full team roster.

"We shared the ball really well tonight. 21 assists out of 38 field goals with six guys in double figures," said Head Coach Dave DeAveiro. "Our bench gave us a boost with 46 points. We are going to need our bench if we want to go deep in this tournament. But our defense was the key tonight. We were active, rebounded well, and contested majority of their shots."

From the opening tip to the final buzzer, Canada controlled the game at both ends with excellent defense and a finely tuned offensive attack. Seven players scored nine or more points, Barrett leading the way with 17. Emmanuel Akot had 15 points, five rebounds, and three steals off the bench, while Shittu finished with 13 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks in 20 minutes of work. Canada shot 50% from the field, limiting China to 26%.

Canada could not have asked for a better start, scoring the first 15 points of the game as their offense, led by Nembhard setting the pace at the point, was able to capitalize on the fast break and dissect China's zone defense. Brazdeikis had eight points and Shittu five rebounds as Canada led 28-13.

China was able to slow the Canadians down a little by capitalizing on a few turnovers to start the second quarter, but it didn't last long, as Shittu and Barrett, the Montverde Academy teammates, began to take over the game at both ends of the floor. Barrett finished the half with 12 points, two assists, and two blocks, while Shittu had 12 points, eight rebounds, two steals, and two blocks. Canada's lead swelled to 27.

There was no let up at halftime, as the Canadians came out blazing hot to start the third quarter, stretching the lead to 37 on the strength of relentless defense and well-balanced offensive execution. As the starters rested, the bench continued to put the pressure on with solid production from Noah Kirkwood, Quincy Guerrier, and Akot who had 12 points, four rebounds and three steals. Canada limited China to 25% shooting through three quarters.

With the game out of reach for China, Canada showed its depth in the fourth quarter, getting great contributions from the bench, Stefan Smith in particular who had 10 points.

Canada's next game will take place Tuesday, June 28th in the round of 16, game time and opponent to be determined.