Host France defeats Canada to enter men’s basketball semis

France clinched a ticket to the Paris Olympics men’s basketball tournament final four by defeating the previously unbeaten Canada on Tuesday, August 6 (Manila Time) at the Bercy Arena.

Guerschon Yabusele, who was inserted to the starting line-up together withIsaia Cordinier picked up the slack for a subdued Victor Wembanyama, helping establish an early 23-10 advantage in the first quarter and France never relinquished until the end.

Yabusele led the way for the host team with 22 points and Cordinier added 20 markers. Evan Fournier scored 15 points and Mathias Lessort notched 13 as Wembanyama was limited to seven, while still hauling down 12 rebounds.

On the other side, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a game-high 27 points for Canada while RJ Barrett contributed 16 markers.

The win set up a rematch against Germany in the semi-finals that is scheduled on Thursday, August 8.