Canadian players Lu Dort and Nickeil Alexander-Walker showcased their skills in Quebec City, leading their team to a 97-92 victory over Argentina in the FIBA men’s basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifier. The game, held at the Videotron Centre and watched by over 13,000 fans, saw Dort scoring 25 points and Alexander-Walker adding 26.
Canada, ranked fifth globally by FIBA, remains undefeated in eight games. They are scheduled to face Uruguay in Uruguay on November 26 before having a rematch with 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 chance to compete in Doha.
Despite Argentina’s Nicolas Laprovittola scoring 31 points, the team fell short. The only other Argentine player in double digits was Nicolas Brussino with 11 points. Dort, a Montreal native, made a significant impact early in the game with a three-pointer, energizing the crowd. Although Canada took an early lead, Argentina fought back and dominated the first quarter, ending with a 29-23 lead.
Argentina extended their lead to 17 points in the second quarter, benefitting from Dort’s absence due to foul trouble. However, Canada managed to reduce the deficit to 53-48 by halftime. In the third quarter, a more aggressive Canadian team, led by veteran Kelly Olynyk, outscored Argentina 25-16.
In the final quarter, Alexander-Walker guided Canada to victory. Dort, playing his first game since the NBA playoffs, admitted feeling rusty initially but regained his rhythm as the game progressed. Reflecting on his performance, Dort expressed readiness and credited his offseason preparation for his strong showing.