Canada showcased their dominance in a resounding 86-71 victory over New Zealand during the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament held in Guadalajara. Commanding the game for almost 32 minutes, Canada surged ahead with a 30-point lead in the third quarter.
Leading the charge were Syla Swords and Delaney Gibb, each contributing 17 points, while Jasmine Bascoe chipped in with 15 points, eight assists, and four rebounds. Swords’ standout performance included an impressive 6-for-8 shooting from the field and a flawless 5-for-5 from beyond the arc.
Canada secured their spot in the final, where they will go head-to-head against host Mexico for the championship title and a coveted spot in the next phase of Olympic qualification. Mexico secured their spot in the final by defeating Brazil in the other semifinal match.
Having previously triumphed over Mexico with a score of 70-64 in the group stage, Canada is set for a rematch in the final showdown. The victorious team in the tournament will earn a coveted place in one of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments scheduled for February 2028.