The Canadian women’s basketball team emerged victorious with an 83-53 win over Mexico in the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament held in Guadalajara. This triumph propels Canada closer to qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Canada also secured the sole spot in the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2028, the final phase of qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

Kayla Alexander led the charge for Canada with 14 points, accompanied by four rebounds and three assists. Agot Makeer contributed 13 points on 5-of-7 shooting, along with three rebounds and three assists, showcasing a turnover-free performance. The Canadian women dominated the tournament, achieving a perfect 5-0 record with victories over Senegal, the Philippines, Mexico, and New Zealand, culminating in a repeat win against the host nation in the final.

Head coach Nell Fortner expressed her pride in the team’s performance, emphasizing the successful integration of both young players and veterans who united for the first time during the tournament. Syla Swords tallied 12 points, while Yvonne Ejim delivered a standout performance with a 10-point, 17-rebound double-double. Ejim’s all-around contribution included two assists, a block, an exceptional efficiency rating of 22, and a plus-32 rating.

Fortner highlighted the team’s defensive strategy as a pivotal factor in their success, noting a focused effort to stifle the opponent’s offense by limiting three-point opportunities. The defensive prowess translated into offensive success, setting the stage for Canada’s resounding victory in the tournament final.