Canadian men drop U23 wheelchair basketball worlds finale to France

Canada fell 62-33 to France in its final game at the men's under-23 wheelchair basketball world championships on Thursday in Phuket, Thailand.

The loss means Canada finishes the tournament 10th overall. Its lone win in group play came in a two-point overtime win against France.

But the French turned the tables in the rematch, racing to a 16-point first-quarter lead and never looking back.

Josh Brown led Canada with eight points and added five rebounds. Reed De'Aeth contributed six points and 13 rebounds.

Canada made just 15 of its 60 field-goal attempts, while France shot 38 per cent.

"France came out wanting to win and to play us hard," Nordell said. "We didn't come out and execute. It starts with preparation. That's why we have junior events like this: so that our athletes can learn how to prepare with regard to sleep, hydration, nutrition and mental preparation."

Despite the 10th-place finish, Nordell said it was a successful tournament.

"I'm glad we came. Opportunities like this come only every four years. We just need to find more opportunities for our athletes to get reps," he said.

The tournament is typically held every four years, but the 2021 edition was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Canada last reached the podium in 2001, its second straight gold medal after the inaugural tournament in 1997.