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 nearly 32 minutes, reaching a peak advantage of 30 points in the third quarter.
Syla Swords and Delaney Gibb emerged as top scorers for Canada, each contributing 17 points, while Jasmine Bascoe added 15 points along with eight assists and four rebounds. Swords exhibited remarkable efficiency, shooting 6-for-8 from the field and a perfect 5-for-5 from beyond the arc.
Canada is set to clash with host Mexico in the final match, where the tournament title and a spot in the next phase of Olympic qualification will be at stake. Mexico secured their spot in the final by defeating Brazil in the other semifinal contest.
Having previously defeated Mexico 70-64 in the group stage, Canada is now gearing up for a rematch in the championship game. The victorious team in the tournament will secure a place in one of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments scheduled for February 2028.