Zabo, Shayok, Jackson Spearhead Canada’s Victory Over Argentina, stand 2-1 at World Championships

•  Kevin Zabo– 18 pts, 3rbs
• Marial Shayok– 15 pts, 8 rbs, 4 ast
• Justin Jackson– 14 pts, 7 rbs

KAUNAS, LITHUANIA – The Canadian Cadet Men’s National Team started off slow, but were able to battle back and win the game over Argentina, 80-76. Canada improves their record to 2-1 in the FIBA U17 World Championship.

The Canadian squad was led by Kevin Zabo (Gatineau, QC) who recorded a team-high 18 points in the game. Marial Shyok (Ottawa, ON) chipped in with 15 points and eight rebounds, while Justin Jackson (Scarborough, ON) scored 14 points and grabbed seven rebounds in the win over Argentina.

In the opening half between Canada and Argentina, it was a tale of two different quarters. In the first, Argentina stormed out of the gates and were able to take control of the game. When the final whistle blew in the quarter Argentina was up 25-14.

In the second quarter the roles were reversed as the resilient Canadian squad came back and was able to take the one point advantage heading into the half, 38-37.

In the third quarter, Canada and Argentina went back and forth with each other. For the majority of the quarter the lead was no bigger than a two possession game. Canada was down by a point heading into the fourth, 55-54.

Canada in the fourth quarter built an early six point lead, but Argentina kept the game close and tied the game with free-throws with 1:05 left in the game.  Canada answered with a 3-pointer by Patrick Steeves (Montreal, QC) with 0:53 seconds left in the game. Canada was able to hold off Argentina and take the game 80-76.

For box score, click here.

Canada will have a day off on Monday and resume on Tuesday against Spain (2-1). The game will tip-off at 2:00 a.m. (EDT).