Canada showcased their dominance over New Zealand with a commanding 86-71 victory in the semifinal of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament held in Guadalajara. The Canadian team maintained the lead for almost 32 minutes and surged to a 30-point advantage during the third quarter. Syla Swords and Delaney Gibb both contributed 17 points each, while Jasmine Bascoe chipped in with 15 points, eight assists, and four rebounds, guiding Canada to the final. Swords displayed exceptional accuracy, shooting 6-for-8 from the field and a perfect 5-for-5 from beyond the arc.
In the upcoming final in Guadalajara, Canada will square off against host Mexico, with the tournament title and a spot in the next phase of Olympic qualification at stake. Mexico secured their spot in the final by defeating Brazil in the other semifinal match. A rematch awaits Canada and Mexico, as Canada emerged victorious with a 70-64 win over the host team during the group stage.
The ultimate champion of the tournament will secure a place in one of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments scheduled for February 2028.