Canada`s Senior Men`s National team hung on to defeat Belgium 74-68 and sweep a two-game mini-series at the 2011 Jack Donohue Classic in Hamilton Ontario.
Canada led 39-26 at the break and much like the previous night, it controlled the action in the second half.
After three-quarters Team Canada was ahead 54-46. Jorn Steinbach and the Belgians scored the first four-points of the final period to close the margin to 54-50, the closest the Europeans would get.
The lead reached a game-high 12 points at 71-59 with under three minutes to play.
Belgium struck back with two late three-pointers to close the gap to 72-67 with 25 seconds to play.
Kelly Olynyk scored a game-high 16 points and grabbed seven rebounds off of the bench to pace the Canadians.
Veteran Carl English continues to find his stroke and finished with 11 points. Andy Rautins (New York Knicks) also reached double-figures with 10 points. Joel Anthony (Miami Heat) added 6 points and four blocks in his second game with Team Canada.
The performance is a welcoming sign for Canadians and Gonzaga Bulldogs fans. Olynyk went down with an injury earlier this year summer and has been forced to the bench, he played limited minutes the previous game.
Spurs Cory Joseph played 20 minutes and finished with 3 points and one assist as he continues to learn Leo Rautins system.
Axel Hervelle finished with 15 points and six rebounds to pace Belgium.
The Next action for Team Canada will come at the 2011 Tuto Marchand Continental Championship Cup in Brazil from August 24-26.
Canada will open-up play against the hosts Brazil and will also get a crack at Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic.
The next games are crucial for Canada.
