Canada Dominates Italy at U17 World Cup
Canada delivered a commanding performance to defeat Italy 86-64 at the FIBA U17 World Cup.
The Canadians seized control early, holding a 10-point lead at halftime (38-28) before unleashing a decisive 32-10 third quarter that propelled them into the final period with a commanding 70-38 advantage.
Despite shooting just 26% from three-point range (7/27), Canada's dominance on the boards, outrebounding Italy 50-38, and superior ball movement, despite 14 turnovers, proved crucial.
Italy struggled offensively, hitting only 33% of their field goals (26/80), though their bench provided a significant spark with 42 points, it wasn't enough to overcome the deficit.
For Italy, Lapo Santini recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds, adding 4 steals and 3 blocks off the bench, while Lorenzo Zotti Pavlovic dished out 6 assists. Tristan Edwards led Canada with 13 rebounds and 8 points, complemented by Grady Kapuanya's 10 points and 7 boards.
This emphatic victory sends a strong statement from Canada as they continue their World Cup campaign.