Remember the name. He’s R. J. Barrett, a 17 year-old kid from Mississauga playing two years above his level with the Team Canada U19 basketball squad as they first knock off the US, then Italy to win the FIBA World Cup in Egypt. FIBA is a French acronym meaning international basketball association. A day after he poured in 38 points against the Americans, Barrett, earned tournament MVP honours. He went 3-for-13 from the field, and 12-of-14 from the free throw line against Italy. The CBC reports that Barrett is considered the world’s best player for his age. He scored 18 points and grabbed 12 rebounds as Canada roared past Italy 79-60 on Sunday to win the Cup, the first time Canadians of any gender or age group have brought home an official basketball world title. The team arrives home Monday night.
