Following the exciting clash in the opening round between Canada and France, head coach Jordi Fernandez shared his insights with the media.
In the highly anticipated duel, which saw Canada emerge victorious with an emphatic 95-65 score, the significance of starting the FIBA World Cup with a strong performance was highlighted. Despite being labeled a “derby,” the term seemed to lose some of its luster due to the decisive outcome.
“The guys showcased their quality. We played well in the beginning, but some shots weren’t falling. We continued in the same rhythm, and it opened up for us in the second half. This is just one win on a long journey. It’s up to us to prepare for the upcoming challenges,” Jordi Fernandez stated.
Caption this. ๐ณ
— FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 ๐ (@FIBAWC) August 25, 2023
Canada beats France by 30 points. #FIBAWC x #WinForCanada
A special reason to believe in his players
“When you win a game in a tournament like this, it means you have only one win. We’ve been through some tough times, and my job is to prepare for the next game. At the end of the day, the work we put in as a team is the main reason I believe in my players.
We haven’t achieved anything yet. We need to show what we’re made of and how this works. The primary goal isn’t the Olympics or gold at the FIBA World Cup; it’s about how we execute this plan and program for the next ten years.
The most impressive thing about Shai isn’t just the points, but his remarkable 13 points and six assists. He dominated defensively as well, all while making shots. You’re looking at a player who will be the MVP of the FIBA World Cup. And he doesn’t plan to stop at this game; he wants to continue performing against every opponent.”
“Great Group, Limited Shared Experience”
“We have a good group, but we don’t have much shared experience. I can only say that everyone in this program is ready to give their maximum to achieve success. Whatever it may be, they’re prepared to do it. Both players and coaching staff, the medical team, the Canadian Basketball Federation, and everyone involved in any way,” elaborated the talented coach, Jordi Fernandez.
Living Up to Praise
“It’s enjoyable when you hear from all sides that you have a quality team, and then the guys step onto the court and prove it. I believe the most important game in life is the next one. We know why we’re here, and every upcoming game will mean life to us.
For us, every game is a final. If you ask me, I’d rather play against the best teams in the world than the weaker ones. That tells you where you stand at this moment. Sometimes the opponent delivers a slap in the face, and sometimes it’s the other way around. When you step onto the court, it’s just one game. Against France tonight, it went as it did, but as I said, it’s just one game in a series for both us and them,” concluded Jordi Fernandez.
Canada will face Lebanon in the next round, scheduled for Sunday, August 27th, starting at 11:45 AM local time. Fernandez’s insightful remarks emphasize the team’s unity and determination as they progress through the tournament.