Lu Dort made an impressive debut in Quebec City, scoring 25 points, while his teammate on the Atlanta Hawks, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, contributed 26 points to lead Canada to a 97-92 victory over Argentina in the FIBA Men’s Basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifier on Monday night. Over 13,000 spectators attended the game at the Videotron Centre.
Canada, ranked fifth in FIBA’s global rankings, remains undefeated in eight games and is scheduled to face Uruguay in Uruguay on Nov. 26 before a rematch in Argentina three days later. The top three teams from the two remaining America groups will secure spots in the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar, with the best fourth-place finisher also earning a ticket to Doha.
Despite a strong performance from Argentina’s Nicolas Laprovittola, who scored 31 points, Canada’s defense held firm. The only other Argentine player to reach double figures was Nicolas Brussino with 11 points.
Lu Dort seized the spotlight early on by scoring the first points with a three-pointer, energizing the crowd. Although Canada initially led 13-6, Argentina fought back, eventually dominating the first quarter with a 29-23 lead. Argentina extended their lead to 17 points early in the second quarter, taking advantage of Dort’s absence due to foul trouble. However, Canada mounted a comeback, narrowing the deficit to 53-48 by halftime.
Canada’s head coach Gordie Herbert acknowledged the team’s slow start but praised their efforts in reducing the lead before the break. In the third quarter, a more aggressive Canadian team, led by Kelly Olynyk, outscored Argentina 25-16.
In the final period, Nickeil Alexander-Walker took charge, guiding Canada to a hard-fought victory. Lu Dort, returning to action after the NBA playoffs, admitted feeling rusty initially but regained his rhythm as the game progressed.
After the match, Dort expressed his readiness and fitness following a break since the NBA playoffs, emphasizing his preparation for the game.