In a convincing fashion, Canada’s U16 national team secured a resounding 89-63 victory over hosts Mexico, remaining unbeaten in the 2023 FIBA U16 Americas Championship with a flawless 4-0 record. This impressive win solidified their well-deserved spot in the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup.
Canada’s offensive firepower was on full display, with multiple players making significant contributions to their victory.
Canada’s dominance over Mexico in recent FIBA U16 competitions is evident in the margin of victory. In six meetings, Canada has scored a total of 459 points against Mexico’s 291 points, resulting in a cumulative point differential of +168 in favour of Canada.
Paul Osaruyi was the leading scorer for Canada, pouring in an impressive 22 points. He shot 57.1% from the field, including a strong 66.7% from two-point range. Osaruyi also contributed 10 rebounds.
Quinten Ethier had his best performance of the tournament and continued to be Canada’s best three-point threat with 14 points on 6-of-10 shots. He demonstrated an excellent catch-and-shoot technique, hitting 60% of his shots, with an impressive 80% accuracy from two-point range.
Jordan Charles dominated Mexico, excelling in both transition and half-court sets. With 8 points, 6 rebounds, and 11 assists in just 30 minutes, his exceptional court vision and passing skills were on full display as he created numerous scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Kamai Samuels showcased his scoring prowess, tallying 13 points in just under 18 minutes of play. He shot an efficient 66.7% from the field, including a perfect 4-of-5 from the free-throw line. Samuels also grabbed 5 rebounds.
Godson Okokoh was a reliable scorer, tallying 13 points on 55.6% shooting. He grabbed 3 rebounds and recorded 1 block.
Karim Lopez had an outstanding performance, leading Mexico with 23 points. He shot 50% from the field, including 50% from both two-point and three-point range. Lopez also showcased his playmaking ability with 5 assists and recorded 3 steals.
Canada was more efficient from the free-throw line, converting 77.3% of their attempts, while Mexico made 58.3% of their free throws. Canada’s bench made a significant impact, contributing 26 points compared to Mexico’s 5.
Canada (4-0) will play Argentina (3-1) in the second-final. The United States will take on Puerto Rico in the first semi-final.
