(Toronto, Ont.) – Canada’s Cadet Men’s National Team started their exhibition play with a buzzer-beating victory over France, winning 81-78. The game was played in Troyes, France, as both teams prepare for the U17 FIBA World Championship for men.

Jamal Murray (Toronto, Ont.) nailed the game-winner with 0.5 seconds left on the clock. Murray led the team in scoring, finishing with 16 points.

Dave DeAveiro was impressed with the team’s win, given the circumstances.

“It was a good first game, playing short-handed without two post players,” said DeAveiro. “Our guys found a way to over come the travel fatigue and get a win.”

Stephane Gomblaud scored a game-high 17 points to lead France’s efforts.

The two teams will play again in the first game of Group B play at the World Championship in Dubai.

Next for Canada in the four-team exhibition tournament is Puerto Rico, on July 31 at 11:15 a.m. EST.

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