Kayla Alexander led Canada’s senior women’s national basketball team with 16 points and seven rebounds in their victorious start at the FIBA Olympic pre-qualifying tournament against Senegal in Guadalajara, Mexico. Syla Swords and Delaney Gibb contributed 13 points each to the team’s success.
Head coach Nell Fortner expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of starting with a win and praising their toughness and rebounding efforts against a formidable opponent like Senegal.
Canada’s dominance on the offensive glass was evident, with a 15-8 advantage in offensive rebounds, aided by Tara Wallack’s four offensive boards. Swords’ early three-point shooting prowess set the tone for Canada’s strong start, as they maintained a lead throughout despite Senegal’s push in the third quarter.
In key statistical categories, Canada outperformed Senegal in points in the paint with a 26-14 lead and shooting efficiency at 52.5%. While points off turnovers were even at 11, Senegal narrowly edged Canada in bench scoring at 31-29.
Following their successful opener, Canada will have a day of rest before their next matchup against the Philippines on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. ET.