Overview
- Canada beat Puerto Rico 110-84 in Hamilton on Friday to improve to 5-0 in first‑round group play and clinch advancement to the second round of Americas qualifying.
- Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander led the win with 26 points, four assists and three rebounds while spending stretches off the ball after asking the coaching staff to expand his role.
- Andrew Nembhard added 23 points and the NBA‑heavy roster showed balanced scoring and efficiency that let Canada build and maintain a 20‑plus point lead.
- The game doubled as a hometown showcase on the newly unveiled Shai Legacy Court in Hamilton and drew strong fan and media attention for Gilgeous‑Alexander’s new short haircut.
- Coach Gordie Herbert said he is prioritizing continuity with multi‑year player commitments as Canada prepares for its final group game against Jamaica on July 6 and second‑round play beginning August 27.