Canada's Andrew Nicholson scores against Brazil's Rafael Hettsheimeir in their FIBA Americas championship game, Sept. 1. (Photo : Reuters)
The Dominican Republic had been struggling in the 2015 FIBA Americas Championship and it will face young powerhouse squad Canada in the last day of the second round of competitions in Mexico City.
Head coach Kenny Atkinson's team has a win-loss record of 2-4 to this point with consecutive losses in the second round against Venezuela, 72-68, and Puerto Rico, 98-92.
In their last game against the Rick Pitino's squad, Francisco García fired 25 points, grabbed three rebounds and dished off four assists while shooting guard James Feldeine backed him up with 20 points, three boards, and three dimes, as per FIBA Live Stats.
However, the team could not contain Puerto Rican point guard J.J. Barea, who had a massive game with 37 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists to turn down the Dominicans.
They will face Argentina on Tuesday before playing this final game against Canada on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Canada had been on a tear after their opening 94-87 loss to Argentina, mowing down their last five opponents all with blowout victories.
Their last win was against Uruguay, 109-82, when seven players scored in double figures. Orlando Magic power forward Andrew Nicholson led Canada with 15 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, as reported by the 2015 FIBA Americas' official website.
Jay Triano's boys are known for their balanced offensive attack and it will be tested against the Dominicans, who is expected to get overwhelmed by it and fall behind by a wide margin right at the opening quarter.
Prediction: Canada wins, 103-68
Dominican Republic starting five: Eloy Vargas (C), Eulis Baez (PF), Francisco García (SF), James Feldeine (SG), Édgar Sosa (PG)
Canada starting five: Kelly Olynyk (C), Anthony Bennett (PF), Andrew Wiggins (SF), Nik Stauskas (SG), Cory Joseph (PG)
