TORONTO, ON – The U16 Men’s National Team earned a big victory in the tournament opener. Team Canada won 84-55 over Venezuela in their first game of the U16 FIBA Americas tournament in Bahia Blanca, Argentina.

"I'm pleased with the way we started the tournament. Our team came out focused and prepared to play. We will need to clean up a few areas in our prep for Mexico. I'm happy to see five guys in double figures and our sharing of the ball,” said Head Coach Dave DeAveiro.

The U16 squad was led by Danilo Djuricic, who dropped 17 points on 6-14 shooting with 11 rebounds in his international debut. Venezuela’s efforts were led by Carlos Paez, who scored 14 points and grabbed two rebounds. For full box score, play-by-play and shot chart, click here.

The starting lineup of Rowan Barrett Jr., Danilo Djuricic, Noah Kirkwood, Andrew Nembhard and Simisola Shittu made an immediate impact. Canada forced turnovers and ran the floor well to open a 29-6 advantage through the first quarter.

Venezuela would settle down in the second quarter and win the period 22-18. The South American side forced turnovers while getting to the free throw line to trim the deficit and be down 47-28 at the half.

The second half would begin much like the first, with Canada’s defence being the difference. The U16 Men’s National Team’s 2-3 zone defence would stymie the Venezuelan squad. On the other end, Canada continued to attack and would win the period 25-7 to put the score at 72-35.

In the final quarter, Venezuela rallied and won the period. Team Canada used a variety of line-ups in the fourth quarter but would still win handily, 84-55.

With the win, Canada is 1-0 in the FIBA Americas tournament. The squad takes on Mexico tomorrow at 5:15 p.m. EST.

For full 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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