Canadians adjust to world-class competition
Men win, women lose in wheelchair basketball world championship openers
HAMBURG Patrick Anderson of Fergus, Ont., scored 26 points to lead Canada to a 77-47 victory over Morocco on Friday to open the 16-country men’s competition at the 2018 World Wheelchair Basketball Championships.
Anderson, who missed the 2016 Paralympic Games where Canada placed 11th to focus on his music career, added 10 rebounds and seven assists. It was the 39-yearold Anderson’s first worlds appearance in 12 years.
“Compared to 2006 it’s just incredible how deep this tournament goes,” the three-time Paralympic Games champion said in a Wheelchair Basketball Canada release. “It’s good to have a game like this to get an opportunity to feel the referees out a little bit, and get the jitters out of the way for both the young guys and the old guys that haven’t been in it for a little while like me.”
Nik Goncin of Regina added 15 points and Chad Jassman of Calgary six. The Moroccans are making their first appearance at worlds. They were shelled by Germany in their opener on Thursday 84-40.
“I enjoyed the fact that we had the opportunity to give everyone a chance to play,”’ said Canadian head coach Matteo Feriani. “Getting over any fears and understanding what it means to play at this level is important.”
On the women’s side, Canada lost 64-56 to Great Britain in its opening game. The British are ranked fourth in the world just ahead of Canada at No. 5. There are 12 countries entered in the women’s tournament.
Arinn Young of Legal, Ont., scored 23 points and added 15 rebounds and Cindy Ouellet of Quebec City chipped in 12.
“I’m glad we got the first one out of the way,” Young said. “It’s not the result we wanted but we have to look ahead at our next one.”