HAMBURG (FIBA U17 World Championship) – Canada overcame the absence of small forward Anthony Bennett to see off Korea 95-74 and win their third game in a row.

As expected, Korea tried to set the pace of the game by establishing their beloved run-and-run style. Canada went with it but also played some very efficient transition defense.

Kevin Pangos made the most of the rapid pace of the game to score 11 points and hand out six assists in the first half as Roy Rana’s side led 52-28.

Korea were struggling in most categories. The only bright spot was their accuracy from the free-throw line.

What the Koreans could not do as a team, Pangos did single-handedly: he knew when and how to slow down the tempo of the game.

The 17-year-old set up his team’s half-court sets to great effect as Canada kept building a commanding lead midway through the third quarter and that allowed Rana used the final frame to try out different line-ups.

Athletic small forward Bennett missed out for Canada after suffering a jaw injury in the game against Spain.

Quotes

Seung Hwan Kim, Korea head coach: "I can only congratulate Canada. Canada's individual abilities were very good and their team play was just as good."

Roy Rana, Canada head coach: "This win is very good for our team spirit. The road ahead of is is not very easy as we face Poland now."

FIBA / JB