Nembhard: "I love playing for my country and is even greater to play at home"

ST CATHERINES (FIBA U18 Americas Championship 2018) – Andrew Nembhard is a leading voice for Team Canada at the FIBA U18 Americas Championship 2018, and with determination and high-skill play he has earned the moniker of team captain for the continental championship.

“It’s an honor to represent my country. Being selected as team captain by the coaches and my teammates it’s a great opportunity to lead by example a great group of talented guys,” said Nembhard.

The Florida Gator signee already has plenty of international experience with three tournaments under his belt. Nembhard made his Canadian team debut during the FIBA U16 Americas Championship 2015 in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, where the Canadians captured the silver medal. The FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup 2016 was the next milestone for Nembhard.

“This tournament is a whole other experience because it’s here at home. It’s amazing to see how the fans come to see our game and to support us. I love playing for my country and is even greater to play at home,” added Nembhard.

Canada jumped into the FIBA U18 Americas Championship 2018 with a 92-75 win over Argentina, as Nembhard led the team with 28 points. Ecuador followed suit, as the Canadians dominated every aspect of the game for a 115-75 win.

“We need to improve our defense. We need to lock-in and be ready for the different match-ups. We need to communicate better on that side of the court. We need to be solid fundamentally, to keep pushing the pace of the game,” concluded Nembhard.