Germany defeat Canada 82-76 at FIBA World Cup

Cory Joseph (R) of Cananda goes up for the basket as Dennis Schroder of Germany blocks during the group P match between Germany and Canada at the 2019 FIBA World Cup in Shanghai, China, Sept. 9, 2019. (Xinhua/Ding Ting)

SHANGHAI, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Germany wrapped up the tournament with an 82-76 victory over Canada here on Monday in Group P of the FIBA World Cup classification round.

In the opening two minutes, Khem Birch of Canada bagged on a slam dunk, while Germany soon returned with one of their own. Germany took the lead by 17-12 after the first quarter.

As the Canadians tried to tie the contest three times in the second quarter, Germany always managed to take the control again, and finished the first half with a three-point lead on 36-33.

Germany, boasting three NBA players in the squad, never scared the Canadians, especially when they are led by Toronto Raptors head coach Nick Nurse, a NBA title winner. The Canadians led for most of the third quarter with the biggest margin of 11 points.

However, it was 56-56 before the Germans hit seven consecutive points in the last 10 minutes and controlled the game with four three-pointers.

"It's really good competition, good experience for us. But there would be at least 10 or 12 possessions that I would like to start over again tonight," said Canada coach Nick Nurse commenting on offense.

Nurse showed his love as national team head coach, saying :"I love national team basketball. I think there's something really special about these guys putting it on the line for their country. To me, it's the purest form of basketball we have. I love that. "

"After the loss in first round, I think we show character and prove we are a good team tonight. Now, our eyes are on next summer, we will try to qualify for the Olympics," said Germany head coach Henrik Rodl.

Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Dennis Schroder recorded the game-high 21 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists for Germany.

"He is extremely hard-working on his skills. He also grows as a person, and a leader. He will be better next year," Rodl spoke highly of Schroder.