First preparation match for the World Cup, and first defeat for the Canada still deprived of Jamal Murray, who narrowly lost (86-81) in Berlin againstGermanybronze medalist at the last Eurobasket.
As usual, the “Mannschaft” was carried by a strong Dennis Schröder (16 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists) despite a painful Achilles tendon for a few weeks, himself well supported by his compatriots NBAers : Franz Wagner in the first place, author of 18 points (including 7 in the last quarter), 2 rebounds and 4 steals, and Daniel Theisvaluable in the indoor sector with 17 points and 5 rebounds.
On the Canadian side, some solid individual performances should also be noted, such as the 14 points of Lu sleepsthe 12 points of RJ Barrett or even the 11 points of Nickeil Alexander Walker And Kelly Olynyk.
A serene Germany
But collectively, on the other hand, it was more sluggish for the Canadian formation… Less used to playing together than their German counterparts, the Canadian players did indeed start very badly, posting a terribly messy attack in the first half, concluded with 16 points from late (34-50)! But fortunately for Jordi Fernandez, his troop then woke up when they returned from the locker room, thanks in particular to a 13-0 from the start in the third act to come back up to the premises (47-50). Completely relaunched, the meeting then found its end at the end of the game, in the “money-time”, with a score of 79 – 79 at the start of the last minute. And in this context, it was the most collectively experienced team that came out of it, thanks to the imperturbable duo Dennis Schröder – Franz Wagner who secured this victory without trembling with forceps.
” Offensively, it was a very good first half for us. We are also progressing in defense », also appreciated the Magic winger, before addressing the less successful second half. ” After the break, we saw our areas of progress. In particular, we must better manage the defense in transition, against an aggressive and physical defense. But it was important that we respond to their 13-0, and it’s good that we did. »
Positives to remember for Canada
For Canada, the defeat is disappointing but not worrying. Jordi Fernandez’s group is still discovering itself, and will gain momentum over the next two weeks. ” Most guys in this group have never been in situations like this “Summarizes the coach of Canada, optimistic for the future. ” That being said, I thought we improved over the game and the quarters. »
Especially in the second half, certainly carrying hopes, particularly in defense, and clearly a base on which to build. And that’s what Lu Dort, best Canadian player in this meeting, prefers to remember. ” We’ll keep playing for each other », thus concludes the back / winger of the Thunder. ” We are progressing, the final product is being designed. We still have several games to continue working. »
Summary of the game
