Canada secured a notable 97-92 victory over Argentina in the FIBA men’s basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifier in Quebec City. Lu Dort shined with 25 points, supported by Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s 26 points for the Canadian team. The game drew over 13,000 enthusiastic fans at the Videotron Centre.
Canada, ranked fifth globally, remains undefeated in eight games. They are set to face Uruguay in Uruguay on November 26 and will have a rematch with Argentina three days later. The top three teams from the two remaining America groups will earn spots in the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar. Additionally, the best fourth-place finisher will also qualify for the tournament in Doha.
Argentina’s Nicolas Laprovittola delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 31 points. Apart from Laprovittola, Nicolas Brussino was the only other Argentine player in double digits with 11 points. Despite Argentina’s efforts, Dort’s early three-pointer set the tone for Canada’s strong start. Argentina managed to take the lead but Canada fought back, narrowing the gap to 53-48 by halftime.
Canada’s head coach Gordie Herbert praised his team for cutting the lead to single digits before halftime. The Canadian team came out more aggressive in the third quarter, outscoring Argentina 25-16, with Kelly Olynyk’s strong presence under the basket pivotal for Canada’s success.
In the final quarter, Alexander-Walker led Canada to victory, showcasing his skills on the court. Dort, playing his first game since the NBA playoffs, initially felt rusty but regained his form as the game progressed. Speaking to reporters post-game, Dort expressed his readiness after a summer focused on maintaining his health and fitness.