Team Canada secured a convincing 86-71 victory over New Zealand in the semifinals of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament held in Guadalajara. Leading for almost 32 minutes, Canada established a commanding 30-point lead during the third quarter. Syla Swords and Delaney Gibb contributed 17 points each, with Jasmine Bascoe adding 15 points, eight assists, and four rebounds, propelling Canada to the final. Swords showcased exceptional accuracy, shooting 6-for-8 from the field and a perfect 5-for-5 from beyond the arc.
In the upcoming final match, Canada will face the host team, Mexico, with the tournament title and a spot in the next phase of Olympic qualification up for grabs. Mexico secured their spot in the final by defeating Brazil in the other semifinal. Canada previously defeated Mexico 70-64 during the group stage, setting the stage for an exciting rematch in the championship showdown.
The victorious team in the tournament will secure a place in one of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments scheduled for February 2028.
