Canada showcased a dominant performance against New Zealand, securing an 86-71 victory in the semifinals of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament held in Guadalajara. Throughout the game, Canada maintained the lead for almost 32 minutes, reaching a peak advantage of 30 points during the third quarter.
Key players Syla Swords and Delaney Gibb both contributed 17 points each, while Jasmine Bascoe added 15 points along with eight assists and four rebounds, propelling Canada into the final. Swords’ exceptional performance stood out as she shot 6-for-8 from the field and a perfect 5-for-5 from beyond the arc.
The Canadian team is set to face host Mexico in the upcoming final match in Guadalajara, with the tournament title at stake and a chance to progress to the next phase of Olympic qualification. Mexico secured their place in the final by defeating Brazil in the other semifinal match.
Canada had previously defeated Mexico 70-64 in the group stage, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch in the championship game. The victor of the tournament will secure a spot in one of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments scheduled for February 2028.