Steady Performance! Barrett & SGA Contribute Most to Team’s Victory

On the morning of July 28, in the first round of the Olympic men’s basketball group stage, Greece narrowly lost to Canada by a score of 79-86 and failed to open their winning streak.

In this game, Canada quickly established an advantage with a widespread offensive effort at the beginning. Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo’s multiple attempts to penetrate the paint and help Greece close the gap, Canada maintained a clear lead. In the second half, Canada’s consecutive three-point shots helped them increase their lead to 16 points. However, under the leadership of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Greece launched a counterattack, scoring 13 points against 4 from Canada, keeping the suspense alive in the game. As the fourth quarter approached, the game became increasingly intense. During the critical phase of continuous scoring by Greece, Alexander of Canada and Murray stepped up, with Alexander scoring off a breakaway and Murray calmly making his free throws, ultimately securing Canada’s victory.

Throughout the game, Barrett started and played for 32 minutes, making 8 out of 13 shots, 1 out of 4 three-pointers, and 6 out of 6 free throws, scoring the highest team total of 23 points with 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 2 turnovers, and 3 fouls, with a plus-minus rating of +10. Alexander, on the other hand, had a steady performance, starting and playing for 30 minutes, making 5 out of 10 shots, 2 out of 3 three-pointers, and 9 out of 10 free throws, scoring 21 points with 5 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks, 2 turnovers, and 2 fouls, with a plus-minus rating of +12. Together, they scored 44 points, helping Canada secure their opening win.