The U16 Men’s National Team finished second at the FIBA Americas championship, falling 77-60 in the gold medal game in Bahia Blanca, Argentina.

Team Canada led for the majority of the game but the US would make a run at the end of the game to win the gold medal. Simisola Shittu was the leader for Canada, stuffing the stat sheet with 18 points, 14 rebounds, six steals and three blocks. Tournament MVP Gary Trent Jr. was the leader for the US squad, scoring 19 points with six rebounds and three steals.

Canada opened the first quarter with strong defence, holding the USA to two points in the first seven minutes of action. The Americans shot 1-17 from the floor and Team Canada won the quarter 19-3.

A press from the USA would cause problems for Canada. The U16 Men’s National Team struggled to control the ball and turnovers led to transition scores for the USA. A Danilo Djuricic three at the buzzer would maintain a double-digit lead, and led 37-27.

The third quarter was a continuation of the second, with turnovers being the focus. Team Canada grinded out points through ball movement and transition play, but the highlight of the quarter was a Shittu put-back in the final seconds.

The Canadian effort would come undone down the stretch. The US defence would be the difference, allowing only nine points in the quarter while scoring 28. Canada would fall 77-60 and earn a silver medal at the 2015 FIBA Americas championship.

Moving forward, the team will play in the 2016 U17 FIBA World Championships.

For the full silver medalist roster and coaching staff, click here.

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For more information, please contact:

Bailey Williams

Manager, Communications

E-mail: bwilliams@basketball.ca

Cell: 647-460-7976

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