Gilgeous-Alexander, Canada counter Luka magic, Slovenia

MANILA, Philippines – Canada used a vicious third quarter surge to separate from a gritty Slovenia team en route to 100-89 win to barge into to the semifinal round of the FIBA World Cup Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

With the game tied at 50 at the half, Canada outscored the Luka Doncic-led Slovenia in the third quarter, 30-21, to create some separation.

Canada's run was fueled by their defense, with RJ Barrett capitalizing on some miscues to score 13 points in the third period alone.

They led by as much as 16 points, 77-61, following a pair of free throws by Barrett.

Slovenia, however, was able to cut the lead to single digit, 80-71, after the third canto.

Canada, however, started the final quarter with a 7-0 run to keep their distance, 87-71.

A Dillon Brooks 3-pointer shut the door on Slovenia's face, 92-76, with 7:06 remaining.

After Brooks hit the big shot, he taunted his defender, leading to a second technical foul and an automatic ejection.

Doncic was also thrown out from the game after he was hit with his second technical foul with 6:37 remaining for complaining.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander spearheaded Canada with 31 points and nine rebounds followed by Barrett with 24 markers.

Doncic, as usual, paced Slovenia’s offense with 26 points.

Canada will be facing Serbia in the semifinal round of the tournament.

Slovenia, meanwhile, will take on Lithuania in the classification round on Thursday at the same venue.