Canadian women whip Mexico 83-53, net Olympic pre-qualifying basketball tourney crown

On Sunday, Canada triumphed over host Mexico with a decisive 83-53 score in the FIBA Women’s Olympic pre-qualifying basketball tournament final held in Guadalajara. Lead scorer Kayla Alexander contributed 14 points and four rebounds, while Agot Makeer added 13 points to the Canadian total. Canada, boasting a perfect 4-0 record entering the final, had already defeated New Zealand 86-71 in the semifinals. They led after the first quarter 26-11 and expanded that advantage to 47-26 at halftime.

The Canadians surged to a 58-26 lead in the third quarter, capitalizing on an 11-0 run in the opening three minutes. Mexico mounted a 9-0 comeback effort later in the quarter, reducing the gap to 58-35. Team Canada dominated the boards, securing 11 offensive rebounds and 38 defensive rebounds for a combined 49, while Mexico had nine and 21 rebounds for 30.

Syla Swords was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and teammate Yvonne Ejim, who contributed 10 points and 17 rebounds, joined her on the all-star team. With the championship secured in Guadalajara, Canada advances closer to their goal of qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.