2023 FIBA World Cup: SGA powers Canada past Spain in 88-85 comeback win

SGA’s fourth-quarter heroics helped Canada avoid a disappointing exit from the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Finding a switch he liked, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander created space and nailed a deep step-back midrange shot to give Canada a lead it never relinquished in the final 42 seconds of the game.

In a game that looked like it would disappointingly spell the end of Canada’s 2023 FIBA World Cup run, Gilgeous-Alexander willed his country to an 88-85 comeback win against Spain.

The win improved Canada’s group record to 4-1 and clinched a spot in the World Cup quarterfinals. The win also clinches a spot in the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics for Canada.

“Half of our goal as we said when we came together a month ago, we wanted to go to the Olympics and we wanted to get gold in this tournament,” Gilgeous-Alexander said after the win. “Half of our job is done.”

After looking lethargic through three quarters, Canada outscored Spain 27-12 in the fourth quarter to overcome a 12-point deficit heading into the final frame. Despite looking fatigued, Gilgeous-Alexander caught a second wind and scored 13 of his 30 points in the final 10 minutes, including six points from the free-throw line in the final 21 seconds to seal the result.

Overall, Gilgeous-Alexander scored an extremely efficient 30 points on 7-of-12 shooting, seven assists, four rebounds and three steals in 37 heavy minutes. He also went a ridiculously good 14-of-16 from the free-throw line to seal the victory.

After Canada struggled to score in the first three quarters, Gilgeous-Alexander turned on a switch in the fourth quarter that coincided with its win as he either scored or assisted on its final 17 points.

Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Lu Dort also played a pivotal role in Canada’s 12-point comeback win. He — along with Dillon Brooks — were defensive wizards against Spain. In 27 minutes, he had three points on 1-of-5 shooting, six assists and four rebounds.

Both Thunder players played important roles in Canada’s must-win performance. Gilgeous-Alexander turned in his best performance yet during this international tournament while Dort was a defensive menace who contributed on offense despite his shot being off.

With Canada avoiding a scare, they’ll prepare to face Luka Doncic and Slovenia in the quarterfinals. This game will be headlined by the matchup of arguably the two best FIBA World Cup players Gilgeous-Alexander and Doncic.

Let’s look at instant reactions and highlights from Canada’s comeback win.