FIBA World Cup 2023: Canada put out holders Spain to reach quarter-finals and clinch Paris 2024 quota
A stunning fourth-quarter comeback saw Canada end La Roja's title defence and set up a knockout stage clash with Luka Doncic and Slovenia.
Basketball
Canada pulled off a storming late comeback to dump holders Spain out of the 2023 FIBA World Cup on Sunday (3 September).
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had 30 points and seven assists as the Canadians overturned a 12-point deficit at the end of the third quarter to win 88-85 in Jakarta.
As well as a place in the quarter-finals, the victory earned Canada the second men's basketball quota spot at Paris 2024 for the Americas available at this tournament.
Brazil were lying in wait after their shock win on Friday, but the Road Warriors bounced back to clinch a first Olympic appearance since Sydney 2000.
The Spaniards broke open a tight encounter late in the second quarter, going on a 15-5 run to take a 48-38 half-time lead.
Back came Canada with RJ Barrett and Dwight Powell going to work to help put their side in front 55-52.
La Roja suddenly moved up a gear, going on a 21-6 run to end the third quarter with a 73-61 advantage.
But the 2019 champions ran into foul trouble and Gilgeous-Alexander punished them with nine out of 10 free throws in the final period as Canada pulled off a famous win.
They now face Slovenia in the quarter-finals with Gilgeous-Alexander set for a mouthwatering head-to-head with Luka Doncic.
More to follow...