Canada defeats Panama to remain undefeated in FIBA World Cup qualifying
Trae Bell-Haynes scored a game-high 18 points and added nine assists to lead Canada to an 86-66 victory over Panama in FIBA World Cup qualification action Thursday.
Marcus Carr, Bell-Haynes' starting backcourt-mate, added a 15-point, 12-assist double-double, while Kyle Wiltjer poured in 18 points of his own for Canada.
Canada brought with it a team mostly consisting of professionals playing in Europe and elsewhere, and players who have had stints in the CEBL. Kelly Olynyk was the only active NBA player for the Canadian side.
The 35-year-old played for the San Antonio Spurs last season, but remains a free agent.
With the win, Canada remained undefeated in qualifying, improving its record to 7-0.
Competing in Group F of the qualifiers, Canada is trying to be among the top three teams in its group to qualify for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Qatar.
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