As the quest for gold and Paris 2024 qualification heats up, the men's wheelchair basketball competition at the Santiago 2023 Parapan Am Games unveils thrilling matchups in the quarterfinals.
Canada and USA men's teams emerged on top, both coming through the preliminary round undefeated to top Group A and Group B, respectively. This sets the stage for clashes against the hosts, Chile, and Puerto Rico, who are both eager to secure their first victories in the tournament
Quarter-final - Canada vs. Puerto Rico:
Canada, who edged out Argentina in a thrilling game to secure first place in their group, will go head-to-head with Puerto Rico. The Canadian team's determination to keep their Paris 2024 qualification dreams alive will be put to the test against a Puerto Rican squad looking to make a statement in the quarterfinal clash.
Reflecting on the group stage and the win over Argentina, Canada's Patrick Anderson, said:
“We knew the road would be even tougher for us if we finished second or worse in our pool, so that was a really important win. Our defence is ultimately what gives us confidence. They (Argentina) had some mini runs, but we were able to stop them and finally hit a couple of baskets. That’s why you work real hard on the part you can control, which is generally your defensive execution and effort.”
Quarter-final - Colombia vs. Venezuela:
In another quarterfinal matchup, Colombia will meet Venezuela. Colombia have showcased their not a side to be underestimated in the group stage, with a convincing win over Brazil and Puerto Rico as well as pushing the Paralympic Champions USA all the way. Now they aim to secure a spot among the top contenders in the tournament.
On the other side of the bracket, a classic South American rivalry is set to unfold as Brazil and Argentina prepare for an intense showdown. Both teams, having navigated the challenges of the group stage, are eager to prove their mettle and advance one step closer to the gold medal.
Quarter-final - Brazil vs. Argentina:
A clash of titans awaits as Brazil and Argentina, two of the Americas’ top teams, lock horns in what promises to be a fiercely contested quarterfinal. The outcome of this match will not only determine semifinal berths but also add another chapter to the storied rivalry between these South American nations.
Quarter-final - USA vs. Chile:
The United States, boasting an impeccable group stage record, is set to face off against the less experienced Chilean team. With Paris 2024 qualification on the line, the stakes are higher than ever as both teams vie for a spot in the coveted semifinals.
Assessing the team’s performances so far, USA's John Boie, said:
"We've built chemistry over the years; we have great coaching, and our players hold each other to the highest standards. We continue to stick to our game plan, trust each other, draw energy from our bench, stay engaged, and have guys come in to fill their minutes and play their roles."
Quarter-final Schedule - Wednesday 22 November
12:30: COL vs VEN
16:00: ARG vs BRA
18:15: CAN vsPUR
20:30: USA vs CHI
Stay tuned for the electrifying moments that will unfold in the upcoming matches, shaping the narrative of this unforgettable tournament.
Photo Credits: Andres Pina/ Parapanamericanos Stgo 2023 via Photosport
