Domantas Sabonis and Team Lithuania have won their second game of the FIBA World Cup tournament in resounding fashion, defeating Canada 92-69 on Tuesday.
With the 2019 FIBA World Cup officially underway in China this month, Pacers fans around the world have tuned in as rising star Domantas Sabonis has the privilege of representing his native country, Lithuania.
In their second game in the first round of Group H, Team Lithuania continued their strong start with a 92-69 win over Canada.
Sabonis would have the pleasure to compete against former teammate and Pacer Cory Joseph of Team Canada.
On a team that has a wealth of talent, Sabonis has carved out a role that has allowed the power forward to contribute in a multitude of ways. This was evident in his performance against Canada.
In 23 minutes, Sabonis had 10 points while nearing a double-double with eight rebounds. Against an active Canadian zone defense, Sabonis was also able to display his passing prowess as he added four assists to his stat line often finding teammate Edgaras Ulanovas who was named the TCL Player of the Game after a 15-point performance.
Sabonis would find a home on the block as he gave Canadian defenders Melvin Ejim and Khem Birch fits with his length and vision. For Pacer fans, Sabonis’ performance against Canada can be an indication of things to come as the forward has developed a well-rounded skill set this offseason. The competition present at the FIBA World Cup will only help the 23-year old improve.
Sabonis and Team Lithuania will look to build on their strong performance as they take on Australia on Thursday in their third game of the tournament. The game will be an exciting one as both teams are tied with four points in Group H.
Team Australia also has familiar NBA faces in Andrew Bogut, Aron Baynes, Matthew Dellavedova, Joe Ingles, Thon Maker and Patty Mills. Team Lithuania and Sabonis will be looking forward to the matchup.