The Canadian women’s basketball team emerged victorious against Mexico with a score of 83-53 to clinch the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament held in Guadalajara. This win propels Canada closer to securing a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Canada’s triumph also guarantees their sole participation in the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2028, the ultimate stage for Olympic Games qualification in Los Angeles 2028.
Key players such as Kayla Alexander, contributing 14 points alongside four rebounds and three assists, and Agot Makeer, who scored 13 points with an impressive shooting record of 5-of-7, played pivotal roles in Canada’s success. The Canadian team dominated the tournament with a flawless record of 5-0, overcoming teams like Senegal, the Philippines, Mexico, and New Zealand before securing a second win against Mexico in the final.
Head coach Nell Fortner expressed her satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “The goal all summer long was to win this tournament, and we did that. We did it in fine fashion today. I’m super proud of my team.”
Syla Swords contributed 12 points, while Yvonne Ejim delivered a standout performance with a 10-point, 17-rebound double-double. Ejim’s stellar play also included two assists and a block, earning her a game-high efficiency rating of 22 and a remarkable plus-32 rating.
Fortner highlighted the team’s defensive strategy as a key factor in their victory, emphasizing their focus on limiting the opposing team’s three-point shots, which proved successful as Mexico only managed a 5-for-26 shooting performance from beyond the arc. She credited their defensive prowess for fueling their offensive gameplay and ultimately securing the championship title.
