Banton leads Canada to quarterfinal win over Mexico in AmeriCup tournament

RECIFE, Brazil — Toronto Raptors guard Dalano Banton had 16 points and seven rebounds to lift Canada to an 82-77 victory over Mexico on Thursday and into the semifinals of the AmeriCup tournament.

Jahvon Blair had 14 points, while Lloyd Pandi chipped in with 11 and Trae Bell-Haynes chipped in 10. Banton also had four rebounds and two steals.

Daniel Amigo scored 20 points to top Mexico.

The Canadian team, coached by Raptors assistant Nathaniel Mitchell, faces either Brazil or the Dominican Republic in the semifinals on Saturday. The final is Sunday.

The AmeriCup isn't part of World Cup or Olympic qualifying.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 8, 2022.