ORLEANS (France) – While other teams have been setting records with the number of preparation games, Canada opted for a different approach, playing only three games this summer. The 2023 FIBA World Cup bronze medalists took a humble stance, confident in their core group of players from last year and seeing no need for extensive testing before the main event.
In their final preparation game against Puerto Rico, just six days before their Olympic start, Canada seemed to opt for a safe mode. However, they still experimented with some defensive strategies and showcased their personnel talent.
It was all smiles for Team Canada during the game, even with the match remaining competitive. Ultimately, Jordi Fernandez's men secured a win with a final score of 103-93.
The story of the game
Puerto Rico got off to a better start with their tricky zone defense disrupting Canada's offense, leading to a 14-12 advantage for Nelson Colon's men. However, things brightened up for Canada with the appearance of Trey Lyles, who scored 7 points in the first quarter.
In the second quarter, the Canadians shifted gears defensively with Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Dillon Brooks, and Lu Dort stepping up. The North Americans, showcasing what might be the best set of perimeter defenders at the Olympics, locked down their opponents and took a 6-point lead into halftime.
Canada started the third quarter with a 15-0 run, blowing the game wide open. The Puerto Ricans didn't score their first field goal of the quarter until four minutes in. Canada's biggest lead extended to as many as 23 points.
Jose Alvarado stole the show in the final quarter with three consecutive three-pointers, cutting the lead to as little as six points. However, Canada tightened their defense and quickly restored a comfortable lead.
The player of the game
We all know how much pride Dillon Brooks takes in his defense, but when he starts hitting his threes, he might just be one of the best players in international basketball. The Houston Rockets guard finished the game making 3 of his 4 three-point attempts—two of those during Canada’s big run at the beginning of the second half.
Brooks tallied 21 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists in just 21 minutes of play. And, of course, his defensive impact was significant, though not fully captured by the numbers.
Alvarado finished the game with 21 points, making 5 of his long-distance shots, 6 rebounds and 6 asissts.
The stats of the game
Canada's defense will be a challenge for any opponent at the Olympics. Against Puerto Rico, they forced 18 turnovers and converted those into 21 points.
Jordi Fernández will likely be pleased with the 46 points scored in the paint, especially given that the frontcourt is considered the team's weakest link.
The takeaways from the game
Canada flex its depth and team chemistry, looking formidable with a roster that’s probably second only to the USA at the Olympics. Ironically, even 2023 NBA champion Jamal Murray might find himself at the end of their backcourt rotation. With Dwight Powell, Kelly Olynyk, and Khem Birch contributing comfortably, the team looks without weaknesses, though their biggest challenge in Lille will be their Group A opponents—nothing can be taken for granted there.
Canada tips off their Olympic campaign against Greece next Saturday.
As for Puerto Rico, they’ve shown improvement from game to game following their demanding OQT event. While there’s still room for growth, fans should appreciate the sparks of high-intensity defense and standout performances from Jose Alvarado and others. As they continue to improve physically, Puerto Rico could be a contender for the Olympic tournament playoffs.
Puerto Rico will play one more preparation game, against Spain on Tuesday.
FIBA