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U19 FIBA World Cup: Canada, Abu Kigab Win Gold Medal vs Ita

By Tony Piraro, 07/22/17, 11:30PM PDT

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CAIRO, Egypt — Team Canada and Oregon freshman Abu Kigab defeated Italy, 79-60, in the gold medal match from Cairo Stadium Indoor Hall 1 on Sunday. With the massive victory, the Canadian’s are the 2017 FIBA U19 World Champions. 

For the third time in four games, Kigab snatched a double-double during the tournament. The Prolific Prep star amassed 12 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and a stolen pass. He finished 5-for-13 (38 percent) from the floor, including 1-for-3 from deep. 

Once again, the No. 1 prospect from the class of 2019 led the way for Canada. RJ Barrett recorded a game-high 18 points, including 12 boards. He finished with a plus/minus of +21. 

It was an unprecedented run for the U19 Canadian team at the FIBA World Cup. Most predicted Team USA to walk away with the gold, while Spain was predicted to finish second. 

For Canada, it was their first basketball gold medal in history. Not to mention, it’s the first U19 World Cup for a Canadian side. 

Kigab helped lead the charge, averaging a double-double for the World Cup. The former Prolific Prep star amassed 14.7 PPG, 10.6 RPG and 2.3 APG. He registered a double-double in four of his seven games played and was named to the World Cup All-Star Team alongside Payton Pritchard. 

Not only did Canada eliminate France, but they also eliminated the No. 1 international team in the world. Team USA U19’s had not lost a game since the 2011 World Cup. Only time will tell how monumental this victory was to the Canadian basketball program. 

The best part is Oregon are the leaders of Canada’s supremely talented pipeline. Canadian’s like Dillon BrooksChris Boucher and Dylan Ennis have opened the door for greatness in Eugene. We the north.