Canada Edges Out Greece in a Nail-Biter

Lille, France – Canada, led by RJ Barrett, emerged victorious over Greece in a tense and gritty showdown, finishing with a score of 86-79.

Despite a spectacular performance from Giannis Antetokounmpo, who poured in 33 points, Canada maintained control throughout the contest. Barrett finished with a game-high 23 points, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 21. Dillon Brooks added 14 points, even after fouling out with three minutes remaining in this preliminary round matchup of the 2024 Olympic Games.

Greece's captain, Kostas Papanikolaou, chipped in with 17 points, including nine early in the game with three three-pointers in the first quarter.

Canada set the tone right from the start, racing to an early 22-9 lead. Greece, under the guidance of Vassilis Spanoulis, managed to trim their deficit to two points at 24-22, but Canada responded and established a solid 10-point cushion by halftime (48-38).

The North Americans extended their lead to as much as 16 points (56-40) in the second half, but Greece clawed their way back into contention, narrowing the margin to just four points (72-68) with seven minutes left on the clock.

A critical three-pointer from Lu Dort halted Greece's momentum, and after a prolonged scoring drought for both teams, Shai's subsequent basket extended Canada's lead back to 10 points (78-68). As the game approached its final moments, Greece made one last push, cutting the deficit to two points following a powerful dunk by Giannis with just over a minute to play.

Looking ahead, on Gameday 2 of Group B, Canada will face Australia, while Greece will take on Spain on Tuesday.

Photo credit: FIBA