Cory Joseph of the Toronto Raptors scored 23 points and Tristan Thompson of the National Basketball Association champion Cleveland Cavaliers added 13 points and 10 rebounds Saturday in a 78-72 victory over New Zealand.
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He told them to “breathe, just relax”, and it worked.
Stats Don’t Lie: Serbia’s supersonic offence stole the limelight from the start as the hosts knocked down 13 of their first 16 attempts from the floor, including 6-of-8 from three-point range.
“He’s our energy guy”, said head coach Jay Triano.
The three qualifying tournaments are determining the final three spots in the Olympics. I’m glad I’m able to be a part of this. “We feel comfortable going to him in the fourth quarter”. “He’s a fierce competitor and was extremely valuable tonight”.
Corey Webster recorded a game-high 21 points for New Zealand.
Scratching and clawing, the Canadians cleaned up on tough baskets around the rim to score 44 points in the paint to 28 for New Zealand.
Gathering a Cory Joseph missed layup in traffic, Ejim made a layup in traffic, was fouled and made the free throw to put Canada up by six points. His best year came in 2010-11, when he averaged 10.5 points per game on 54 percent shooting and 3.3 rebounds per game to help the Huskers win 19 games and earn an NIT bid.
Tied 42-42 at the half, Canada carried a four-point lead into the final quarter and hung on for the win by outscoring New Zealand 20-18.
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France (5th) and Turkey (8th) are both ranked far ahead of Canada’s 26th place in the FIBA standings and either will present a stiff challenge in the Finals.
