IN AND outside the world of sports, there is always a first time.

And for all intents and purposes, that happened for Canada when it mattered most.

Canada achieved a historic milestone by defeating the United States in the FIBA World Cup and clinching a well-deserved bronze medal.

The thrilling victory came in an overtime showdown, where Canada triumphed with a final score of 127-118 over the NBA-laden Team USA before a sellout crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, September 10.

Dillon Brooks and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander were the heroes of the day, leading the charge for the determined Canadian squad.

It was a sweet redemption for Canada, who had previously faced seven consecutive defeats against the American team in World Cup matchups.

This triumph also marked the very first instance where Canada finished higher than the United States in the history of the World Cup.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s clutch performance in the overtime period was pivotal, contributing seven of his 31 points when it mattered most.

Team USA managed to force overtime with a sensational four-point play by Mikal Bridges during the closing moments of regulation, leveling the score at 111-111.

In a high-pressure situation, Brooks delivered his finest performance of the tournament, astonishingly sinking 39 points, with an impressive 7-of-8 shooting from beyond the three-point line.

Scores:

Canada (127) – Brooks 39, Gilgeous-Alexander 31, Barrett 23, Olynyk 11, Dort 11, Alexander-Walker 5, Powell 4, Ejim 3, Edey 0, Scrubb 0.

USA (118) – Edwards 24, Reaves 23, Bridges 19, Portis 14, Brunson 13, Hart 10, Haliburton 6, Kessler 6, Johnson 3.

Quarters: 34-25, 58-56, 91-82, 111-111 (reg), 127-118 (OT).