(MEXICO CITY, MEXICO) September 6 – Team Canada cruised to a 103-66 win over Panama to begin the second round at the 2015 FIBA Americas Men’s Championship.

“Our goal was to rebound and see if we could get out in transition. We were able to wear them down by continually running and doing a good job on defence,” said Head Coach Jay Triano.

Brady Heslip poured in 23 points, including seven three-pointers, to lead Canada. Nik Stauskas put together a great all-around performance, scoring 16 points with six rebounds and five assists. Canada made 14 threes and held Panama to 34% shooting. Jonathan King led Panama with 13 points. For full box score, click here.

Defence was the story of the first quarter, as Canada locked down Panama. They forced seven turnovers and held Panama scoreless from the 6:30 mark in the first quarter. Offensively, Canada attacked from the perimeter, trying to draw fouls or get lay-ups. Cory Joseph scored nine points in the quarter and Team Canada led 20-10 after one quarter.

The two teams traded buckets for the majority of the quarter, but Canada got a spark from Brady Heslip and extended their lead. Ball movement freed up the shooter and he scored four threes in the quarter. As Heslip heated up, Canada’s defence picked up and forced more misses from Panama. At half, Panama only had nine made field goals. The Men’s National Team held a 42-23 advantage at the half.

With a significant lead, Canada continued to push. On offence, the ball quickly moved around the court and the Men’s National Team earned high-percentage looks. Nik Stauskas and Andrew Wiggins found their touch from beyond the arc, to which Panama had no answer. After 30 minutes of play, Canada led 77-43.

Canada’s bench would play the majority of the fourth quarter and carried over the third quarter momentum. They would score 26 in the quarter and Canada would go on to win 103-66.

“We know that tomorrow’s going to be a tough game but it is good to start the second round with a win,” said Brady Heslip.

The next game for Team Canada is September 7 against Uruguay. Coverage starts on TSN at 7:00 pm EST.

For full FIBA Americas roster, click here.

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

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