Canada’s impressive run in the FIBA men’s AmeriCup basketball championship in Managua, Nicaragua, has come to an end with a loss to Argentina in the semifinals. Despite entering the game unbeaten, Canada fell short in an 83-73 defeat. As a result, Canada will now compete for the bronze medal against the United States, who lost to Brazil in the other semifinal.
Argentina dominated the game from the start, outscoring Canada 24-9 in the first quarter and maintaining their lead throughout. Jose Vildoza led Argentina with 26 points and six assists, while Gonzalo Corbalan contributed 12 points and 11 rebounds, and Juan Fernandez added 11 points and five rebounds.
On the Canadian side, Marcus Carr scored 16 points and had four assists, Trae Bell-Haynes added 15 points, and Mfiondu Kabengele recorded 14 points and eight rebounds. Despite Canada’s efforts in various statistical categories, including shooting percentage, bench points, points in the paint, and points off turnovers, they couldn’t recover from the early deficit.
Canadian head coach Nathaniel Mitchell acknowledged the challenge of facing a strong Argentina team, while Marcus Carr highlighted Canada’s struggles on the glass impacting their defensive play. Canada’s low three-point shooting percentage and Argentina’s efficiency from beyond the arc were also determining factors in the outcome.
In the other semifinal, Brazil staged a remarkable comeback against the United States, securing a spot in the championship game against Argentina. The U.S. will now face Canada in the battle for third place in the tournament.