Canada showcased a dominant performance as they triumphed over New Zealand with a final score of 86-71 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, extending their advantage to 30 points during the third quarter. Syla Swords and Delaney Gibb contributed significantly, each scoring 17 points, while Jasmine Bascoe added 15 points along with eight assists and four rebounds, propelling Canada into the tournament final. Swords displayed remarkable accuracy, shooting 6-for-8 from the field and a flawless 5-for-5 from beyond the arc.
In the upcoming final match in Guadalajara, Canada will square off against the host team, Mexico, with both the tournament title and a spot in the subsequent stage of Olympic qualification at stake. Mexico secured their spot in the final by defeating Brazil in the other semifinal showdown. Canada previously clashed with Mexico in the group stage and emerged victorious with a score of 70-64, setting the stage for an anticipated rematch in the championship game.
The victor of the tournament will secure a place in one of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments scheduled for February 2028.