BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (June 8, 2024) - Five players finished in double-digits as Canada defeated Brazil 72-68 at the FIBA U18 Men’s AmeriCup 2024, solidifying their spot in the FIBA U19 Men’s Basketball World Cup 2025.

Canada was on a mission from the start, running out to a 13-0 run in the first quarter. Jaion Pitt and Jalen Rougier-Roane led the way in that run, with Pitt finishing the game with a team-high 17 points and 11 rebounds and Rougier-Roane finishing with 10 points and shot 50 percent from three.

In the second quarter, Canada built on their lead, with Justus Haseley recording a steal and knocking down a three on the other end of the floor to give Canada the 27-11 lead. Brazil went on their own run to close out the first half, cutting it to a seven-point deficit.

Canada jumped back out at the start of the third quarter, but Brazil brought it to a one-possession game by the end of the third. The fourth quarter was back and forth until Canada maintained a two-possession lead to close it out.

Tristan Beckford secured a defensive rebound to close the game, finishing with a 16-point and 10-rebound double-double. Spencer Ahrens also finished with a double-double, scoring 10 points and 10 rebounds off the glass.

The win secured Canada a spot in the FIBA U19 Men’s Basketball World Cup 2025, as they will finish in the top four of the eight teams in this tournament.

“It feels great to qualify. We all left our hearts out there, and it pays off. It always feels great to earn something you worked really hard for,” said Jaion Pitt.

Canada’s run at the FIBA U18 Men’s AmeriCup 2024 isn’t over yet, as they are set to face USA in the semifinals today at 4:40 p.m. ET / 1:40 p.m. PT. 

“It is a very special feeling, but our job is not done yet,” said head coach Ramón Díaz. “We enjoyed the moment together on the court, but now it is time to turn all of our focus to the USA and put ourselves in a position to win a gold medal.”

Fans can catch all the action live on FIBA’s YouTube Channel.

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