Vancouver B.C. - ON Friday night, a collection of Canada’s best played in the inaugural Pacific Rim Classic at Rogers Arena against Team China. The game did not disappoint. Returning to Vancouver for the first time in eight years, Team Canada was met by eager fans and a packed lower bowl. Team Canada had their training camp at the Richmond Oval while Team China played a sold out tune-up game against the UBC Thunderbirds at War Memorial Gym.
BC products Kelly Olynyk, Phil Scrubb and Tommy Scrubb would take the court in their home province supported by family, friends and fans. Head Coach Jay Triano also has ties to Vancouver as he starred collegiately at SFU. The first game of the Pacific Rim Classic would also be the first appearance on the Senior Men’s National Team for Top Prospect / Duke Commit RJ Barrett.
Team Canada would assert themselves right out of the gates riding the energy of the home crowd which included an early dunk from RJ Barrett. With strong performances from the whole team, Canada would open a 52-31 lead at the half. In the second half Dillon Brooks would catch fire and Chris Boucher would anchor the defense as Team Canada cruised to a 97-62. Chris Boucher was named player of the game notching 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 blocks. Dillon Brooks poured in 21 while RJ Barrett added 16.
Team Canada is in Victoria for Game 2 of the Pacific Rim Classic against Team China at the Save-On Foods Memorial Centre at 5:00pm on Sunday. Tickets are still available online and at the door.
Tickets: PacificRimClassic.com
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