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Canada U18 Men’s National Team Captures Bronze at AmeriCup Championships with Big Win Over the Dominican Republic
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (June 9, 2024) - Canada will take a bronze medal home as they defeat the Dominican Republic 89-67 in the third-place game at the FIBA U18 Men’s AmeriCup 2024.
After going 2-1 in group play, Canada completed a full-circle comeback, avenging their first loss against the Dominican Republic. On the route to the third-place game, Canada defeated Brazil in the quarterfinals but fell to the USA in the semifinal game.
In today’s matchup, Canada came out aggressive right from the start, double-teaming the Dominican Republic on defence and closing out each possession.
“We came out with passion,” said Efeosa Oliogu, who finished with a team-high 23 points and seven assists.
Oliogu averaged 15.3 points per game this week, remaining consistent on the floor, including some impressive buckets.
Canada jumped out to a 46-35 lead, but the Dominican Republic was able to cut it to six points by halftime.
The team set the tone in the second half, building on their lead and becoming more confident with every bucket. Tristan Beckford, who finished with 16 points and seven rebounds, had a poster dunk against his defender.
Canada had solidified a 70-55 lead at the end of the third quarter. Spencer Ahrens continued to put up high numbers, finishing the game with 19 points and 11 rebounds.
“The most important thing I learned this week was just to have fun on the court,” said Ahrens. “While our team was having fun and smiles on our faces, we were more motivated to compete and play for each other and to play for our country.”
Other standout performers for Canada included experienced player Jaion Pitt, who finished with 11 points and six rebounds. Justus Haseley and Matthew Dann had six and four points apiece, including four big blocks from Dann.
“I thought that we grew as a team with each day that passed,” said head coach Ramón Díaz. “We have an incredible group of kids that bought in and showed resilience when we needed it most.”
Coach Díaz completes his debut with the U18 Men’s Team with a medal and a qualification in the FIBA U19 Men’s Basketball World Cup 2025. “To be able to win a medal is a great honour,” he said. “We will continue to build on this moment and come back stronger next year for Worlds.”
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