Canada defeat USA to win bronze at 2023 FIBA World Cup

Canada’s basketball team made history as they defeated the USA 127-118 after overtime to claim a first-ever FIBA World Cup medal. The North Americans defeated their illustrious opponents to finish in third place.

Having lost to Germany and Serbia respectively, USA and Canada were to go head-to-head for the final podium position in Manila. The Canadians were targeting a first medal, while the Americans were looking to put their disappointment behind them after defeats to Lithuania and Germany in this tournament.

Canada flew out of the blocks and dominated the first quarter, ending it with a 34-25 lead. The Americans fought back in the second quarter and closed the gap to just two points, with the first half ending 58-56 in favour of the Canadians.

The second half started with Canada looking to press home the advantage, and they extended their lead to 91-82 by the end of the third quarter. The USA team fought in the fourth quarter to drag the game back, drawing level by the end of the fourth quarter with the scores at 111-111.

The game went to overtime, where Canada found new energy and pushed themselves past the USA to end up with a 127-118 win.

Dillon Brooks led the scoring for Canada with 39 points, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points and 12 assists. For the USA, Anthony Edwards scored 24 points and Austin Reaves finished with 23 points.