Kayla Alexander led the scoring with 16 points and grabbed seven rebounds as Canada’s senior women’s national basketball team began the FIBA Olympic pre-qualifying tournament with a 72-57 victory over Senegal in Guadalajara, Mexico. Syla Swords and Delaney Gibb also contributed with 13 points each for the Canadian team.
Canadian head coach Nell Fortner expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “It’s a positive start for us. Starting with a win is always encouraging. I felt that we played with resilience and excelled in rebounding. Senegal is known for their strong rebounding abilities, so it’s rewarding to win that battle. Securing our first victory is a great feeling.”
Canada’s dominance on the offensive glass was evident, holding a 15-8 advantage in offensive rebounds. Tara Wallack’s contribution with four offensive rebounds bolstered Canada’s possessions.
Swords made an early impact for Canada, sinking three three-pointers in the first quarter. Despite Senegal’s resurgence in the third quarter, Canada maintained control throughout the game, leading by as much as 17 points.
In the paint, Canada outscored Senegal 26-14 and shot 52.5% from that area. Points off turnovers were even at 11, while Senegal narrowly edged Canada in bench scoring with a 31-29 advantage.
Following a day off on Tuesday, Canada will face the Philippines on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. ET in their next tournament matchup.