Canada stays perfect in FIBA World Cup qualifying with win over Panama
Canada improved to 7-0 in FIBA World Cup qualifying with an 86-66 win over Panama. Trae Bell-Haynes and Kyle Wiltjer each scored 18 points, while Marcus Carr contributed 15 points and 12 assists. Despite a competitive first half, Canada dominated the second, showcasing superior shooting efficiency and rebounding. They next face Argentina.
Photo: FIBA Americas
Canada remained unbeaten in FIBA World Cup qualifying after pulling away from Panama for an 86-66 road victory on Thursday at Arena Roberto Durán.
The Canadians improved to 7-0 in Group F and continued their push toward a place at the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Qatar. Trae Bell-Haynes led the way with 18 points and nine assists, while Kyle Wiltjer also scored 18 and Marcus Carr added 15 points and 12 assists.
Panama stayed competitive through the opening half, but Canada created separation after the break and controlled the final quarter to turn a close game into a 20-point win.
Canada takes control after halftime
The game opened evenly, with both teams tied 14-14 after the first quarter.
Panama continued to make things difficult in the second period, but Canada edged ahead and went into halftime leading 37-34.
The visitors began to impose themselves more consistently in the second half. Canada won the third quarter 22-17 before breaking the game open with a 27-15 advantage over the final 10 minutes.
That late surge reflected a broader statistical edge.
Canada shot 45 percent from the field compared with Panama’s 32 percent and also held a clear advantage on the glass, finishing with 45 rebounds to Panama’s 32. The Canadians collected 14 offensive rebounds, creating additional possessions while limiting second-chance opportunities at the other end.
Ball movement was another major difference. Canada finished with 27 assists, almost double Panama’s total of 15.
Carr was at the centre of that distribution, recording 12 assists to go along with his 15 points.
Bell-Haynes and Wiltjer lead the scoring
Bell-Haynes delivered one of Canada’s most complete performances, finishing with a game-high 18 points and nine assists.
Wiltjer matched him with 18 points, giving Canada another reliable scoring option throughout the night.
Panama’s Luis Rodriguez Jr. led the hosts with 17 points and also contributed five steals. Eric Romero finished with nine rebounds and three blocks, while Trevor Gaskins handed out seven assists.
Panama did have success creating pressure defensively, finishing with 10 steals to Canada’s five and eight blocks to Canada’s four, but the hosts could not overcome the difference in shooting efficiency and rebounding.
Canada entered the qualifier with a roster built largely around players competing professionally in Europe and other leagues, along with players who have spent time in the CEBL. Kelly Olynyk was the only active NBA player listed with the Canadian team.
Argentina up next for Canada
With the victory, Canada strengthened its position at the top end of Group F and remained perfect through seven qualifying games.
The top three teams in the group will qualify for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Qatar.
Canada will now turn its attention to Argentina, with the two teams set to meet Monday in Quebec City.
