Canada showcased a dominant performance against New Zealand, securing an 86-71 victory in the semifinal of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament held in Guadalajara. Throughout the game, Canada maintained the lead for almost 32 minutes and extended their advantage to 30 points during the third quarter.
Notable contributions came from Syla Swords and Delaney Gibb, who both tallied 17 points, along with Jasmine Bascoe, who added 15 points, eight assists, and four rebounds. Swords displayed exceptional efficiency by shooting 6-for-8 from the field and a perfect 5-for-5 from beyond the arc.
Canada is now set to compete against host Mexico in the tournament final, where the championship title and a spot in the subsequent stage of Olympic qualification will be at stake. Mexico secured their place in the final by overcoming Brazil in the other semifinal match.
In a previous encounter during the group stage, Canada emerged victorious against Mexico with a scoreline of 70-64, setting the stage for an exciting rematch in the championship showdown. The ultimate prize for the tournament winner will be a coveted spot in one of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments scheduled for February 2028.