In the first game of the Group Play stage in the FIBA Men’s Basketball World Cup, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Lu Dort, and Canada got off to a slow start against Rudy Gobert, Evan Fournier, and France before getting things together in the second half. Canada blew France out 95-65.
After not being able to get anything going in the first quarter offensively, and only scoring 14 points, they ramped things up in the second, ultimately taking the lead at halftime. The biggest difference was Canada getting to the free-throw line 16 times in the first half, compared to France’s seven, and France turning the ball over nine times, compared to Canada’s four. The Canadians got it together in the second quarter and took advantage of France’s physical approach.
What Thunder fans want to know: How did Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Lu Dort play?
It was an extremely slow start for SGA, who shot 0-for-4 before getting things going offensively in the second quarter. Initially, he seemed to be getting acclimated to the game and France’s physicality, just like the rest of Team Canada.
That was the only adjustment Shai needed. In the second quarter, he racked up 8 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals. He then scored 19 points in the second half. OKC’s All-Star finished with 27 points, 13 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals in 27 minutes.
Dort didn’t have his ideal game, but he made big plays when needed, contributing to Canada’s 30-point win. Dort tallied 7 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals.
Canada’s next game will be against Lebanon on Sunday at 4:45 AM CT.
