Canada advances to FIBA women’s Olympic pre-qualifying final with win over New Zealand

Canada dominated New Zealand 86-71 in the semifinal of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament in Guadalajara on Saturday.

Canada led for nearly 32 minutes and built its largest advantage at 30 points in the third quarter.

Syla Swords and Delaney Gibb each scored 17 points, while Jasmine Bascoe added 15 points, eight assists and four rebounds to lead Canada into the final. Swords was particularly efficient, going 6-for-8 from the field and a perfect 5-for-5 from three-point range.

Canada will face host Mexico in Sunday’s final in Guadalajara with the tournament title and a place in the next stage of Olympic qualification on the line. Mexico advanced after defeating Brazil in the other semifinal.

Canada beats host Mexico at FIBA Olympic women's basketball pre-qualifier

Canada defeated Mexico 70-64 in the group stage, setting up a rematch in the championship game.

The tournament champion will earn a berth in one of the FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournaments in February 2028.