RJ Barrett scored 24 points and Canada disposed of Australia, 93-83, in Group A action of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 men’s basketball on Tuesday, July 30 (Philippine time).
Barrett, who also had seven rebounds, five assists, and two steals, spearheaded Canada’s attack in the second half where they outscored the Boomers, 45-31.
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Canada, which spoiled Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 34-point outing in the opener, is now atop the branded "Group of Death" with a perfect 2-0 record.
[ALSO READ: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander propels Canada past Giannis Antetokoumpo, Greece in Paris 2024 men’s basketball]
The Toronto Raptor had plenty of help, with Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander putting up 16 points, four rebounds, three assists, three steals, and two blocks.
Dillon Brooks added 16 points, including the buzzer-beating three-pointer that gave the team the 10-point win at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium.
Canada held a slim 72-70 lead heading into the final period, but later turned it into an 81-72 buffer on a 7-0 run capped by Barrett’s triple with 5:09 left in the game.
The Boomers, also winners in their opening game against Spain, could only go as close as seven points from there, with Canada even leading by as many as 11, 90-79, after Gilgeous-Alexander’s alley-oop to Dwight Powell entering the final minute.
There’s just very little Australia could do after that.
[RELATED STORY: Australia blasts Spain in Paris 2024 basketball opener]
Josh Giddey paced the Boomers with 19 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, while Jock Landale had 16 points and 12 rebounds.
Dante Exum added 15 points for Australia, which now holds a 1-1 win-loss card.
