MEN'S NATIONAL TEAM BEATS CUBA 101-59 FOR FIRST WIN AT 2015 FIBA AMERICAS

(MEXICO CITY, MEXICO) – The Men’s National Team earned their first win at the 2015 FIBA Americas tournament with a 101-59 victory over Cuba.

“After yesterday we needed to improve on a few things. I thought we were more focused and we were able to play all 12 minutes and balance the minutes. With four games in four days, we felt that was important,” said Head Coach Jay Triano. “Once we got the ball in transition, that’s the way we want to play - we want to try and score easy baskets as much as we can.”

Nik Stauskas and Andrew Wiggins scored 15 points each to lead the team win. All Canadian players scored and Cory Joseph logged six assists. Team Canada held Cuba to 28% shooting from the field. Jasiel Romero scored 20 points to lead Cuba in the loss. For full box score, click here.

Eager to rebound from yesterday’s loss, Canada came out with intensity to start the second game. They started on an 11-0 run with Wiggins active on both ends. The Men’s National Team was active of defence, forcing turnovers and scoring in transition. Canada led 30-10 after one quarter.

With a significant lead, Canada used their bench depth to rest some starters. The defensive intensity did not waver and they held Cuba to five points in the first five minutes of the second quarter. The Men’s National Team continued to have their way on offence but could not connect on their open shots. At the half, Canada held a 49-19 advantage.

Cory Joseph opened the quarter with a transition lay-up, representative of the period ahead. Canada ran off missed shots and found open lanes to the rim. After struggling on defence, Cuba employed a zone defence but the Men’s National Team moved the ball well. With three quarters in the books, Canada led 71-41.

Canada continued to pour it on in the fourth quarter. Behind ball movement and free throws, the Canadian lead grew to 41 with five minutes left. Cycling different players through, Canada held the lead to finish the game, winning 101-59.

“It was a good opportunity for all of our guys to get out there today and just play freely. Other than the third quarter, where I thought we maybe backed off a little bit and gave them too many opportunities, I thought we did a good job staying focused all game and playing our game,” said Nik Stauskas.

The next game for Team Canada is September 3 against Venezuela. Coverage starts on TSN at 6:30.

For full FIBA Americas roster, click here.

For more information about the FIBA Americas Men’s Championship, click here.