89 Days to B1G Basketball: Team USA (Purdue) Mounts Late Comeback, Tops Team Canada

Team USA (Purdue) participated in their second exhibition game against Team Canada as they prepare for the World University Games later this month in Taipei. The second of two games, this one taking place in Lafayette, didn’t go as smoothly for the USA.

After winning on Friday night 94-86, the USA trailed late against Canada and looked like they were in serious trouble. However, a late 7-0 run over the last 1:34 allowed them to cut the deficit and force overtime. Isaac Haas made an and-one for a three point play with 25 seconds remaining to tie it and a contest jumper by Canada didn’t go at the buzzer.

Once the game went to overtime it was all Team USA as they ran past Canada 20-8 in the five minute period. USA made 4 of their 5 field goals in the extra period and iced the game at the free throw line, making 11 of their 14 attempts.

Vincent Edwards led the USA in scoring, recording 25 points on 11 of 17 shooting. Isaac Haas just missed a double-double, adding 17 points and 9 rebounds. Also reaching double figures were Carsen Edwards (15) and P.J. Thompson (13).

Unfortunately for Team USA, they once again struggled with turnovers and three point shooting. One day after committing 17 turnovers the USA committed 19 turnovers, four more than their total number of assists. They also struggled from deep, shooting 24.1% on 29 attempts. They made up for this by shooting effectively from inside and the free throw line. Team USA also out rebounded Canada by a 51-38 margin and forced 20 turnovers on defense.

Next up for Purdue and Team USA will be Team Argentina on the 20th. Argentina will be their first opponent in pool play once they head to Taipei.