Canada edges out US 127-118 in OT to clinch bronze at World Cup

Canada came out on top against the US in a hard-fought match 127-118 in OT to clinch the bronze medal at the Basketball World Cup.

Josh Hart as the US falls to Canada in overtime 127-118:

10 points
4-4 shooting
2 assists pic.twitter.com/bseaBwVf72

— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) September 10, 2023

Dillon Brooks, as expected, was the standout player with 39 points, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added another 31 points with 12 assists.

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The win is a huge milestone for Canada, who claim their first medal in 87 years, while the US fail to convert for a second year running.

“The United States hasn’t won the World Cup since 2014,” U.S. coach Steve Kerr said. “It’s hard. These teams in FIBA are really good, well-coached, they’ve got continuity and they’ve played together for a long time. This is difficult and it’s been difficult already.”

The US came into the match as favorites as well, but again fell short of expectations.

They did claw back in the final second of regulations to send the game in overtime, but the Canadians remained fully focused and closed out the match.

“This team was amazing, special,” Canada coach Jordi Fernandez said. “It’s the beginning of something that’s going to last for a long time.”