Dominican Republic will fearlessly face Canada

TORONTO (FIBA World Cup Americas Qualifier 2019) — Although Canada are reinforced with several NBA-experienced talents, this does not intimidate the Dominican Republic.

The Dominican side continues to prepare for this important duel against the Canadians, which will take place this Friday in the city of Toronto. The Caribbean team will face a North American group that is quite different from the one they saw in November of last year when they played in the first Qualifying window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup. Players such as Dwight Powell (Dallas Mavericks), Dillon Brooks (Memphis Grizzlies), Kelly Olynyk (Miami Heat), and Corey Joseph (Indiana Pacers), are coming to this window after playing in the NBA's most recent season

“It's not intimidating at all for us, since we're a group that has been working together the last few months. We've been together in the most recent competitions, we have a good chemistry, and we're united. Without a doubt we will keep using these elements to our advantage,” said Víctor Liz, the Dominican Republic’s shooting guard, during one of the team’s practices.

 The squad led by Melvyn López overpowered Canada, 88-76, in their duel in November 2017. Dominicana leads Group D with a 4-0 record, followed by the Canadians, with 3-1. Friday's game could define the leader of this section just before the second phase of the Qualifiers that begin next September.

“It's very important for us, because our mind is set to end this first round with 6-0. We have to work towards that and respect our rival and go for our objective. We're working hard on that. Each one of the players is very focused and committed to what will be our first game in Canada,” added Liz, who has played in the first four Qualifying games with an average of 14.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists.

FIBA