Canada’s men’s wheelchair basketball team will return to France in August to continue its run of Paralympic appearances from 1968.
The Canadians scored early and often in Monday’s crossover game against Italy and never surrendered the lead, prevailing 72-60 at the last-chance qualifier tournament in Antibes.
They will travel to Paris this summer in search of their first gold medal since 2012 in London after being crowned Paralympic champions in 2000 and 2004.
The Italians, who won all three of their games in group play in France, were looking to return to the Summer Games for the first time since London, where they placed 10th.
But their shooting from the field was off from the outset of Monday’s contest, as Italy shot only 36 per cent while Canada converted 30 of 50 shots for its first win in four attempts at the repechage tourney in France.
Patrick Anderson, who hadn’t shot well in Antibes ahead of Monday’s contest, delivered when it counted most, leading all players in points (23), rebounds (12) and assists (5).
Nikoka Goncin and Vincent Dallaire, who played all 40 minutes, had 11 points apiece, while Giulio Maria Papi and Filippo Carossino each counted 16 points and five rebounds to top Italy.
WATCH | Full replay of Canada vs. Iran on Sunday:
Watch Canada take on Iran in Antibes, France, as Canada tries to earn a spot at the 2024 Summer Paralympics.