Team Canada has advanced to the quarterfinals after they defeated Japan and improved to 3-0 in group play. They were able to get 6 points which automatically gives them a spot in the quarterfinals along with the United States.
They were able to get off to a solid start in the first quarter. They led by 8 at the end of the quarter. They were able to maintain their lead and led by double-digits at halftime. The score was 41-25. In the third quarter, Canada extended their lead and led by 22 points at the end of the quarter. They were then able to hold onto the lead and win the game. The final score was 70 to 56.
Canada has been very impressive in group play. They have defeated Serbia, a tough France team and now Japan. They were led in scoring by Bridget Carleton with 20 points and 6 rebounds. Kayla Alexander continued to perform well and finished with a double-double. She had 13 points and 11 rebounds in the win. Two more fellow players also played well and scored 20 and 19 points respectively. Shay Colley finished with 19 points and 7 rebounds while Laeticia Amihere finished with 20 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.
Canada was extremely effective in the paint area and shot 50%. They limited Japan to 31.9% FG and 17.1% from three. They also out-rebounded Japan by 14, 48-34.
TEAM CANADA VS AUSTRAILIA PREVIEW
Up next for Team Canada in group play is a game against the host nation, team Australia. Canada has already secured a spot in the quarterfinals. This game will be tough and Canada will have it’s hands full. This game might be extremely difficult for Canada to win, so I expect a loss. It will be close, but it’s not going to be easy. Canada will have to deal with superstar Lauren Jackson as well as Sami Whitcomb, Ezi Magbegor, Rebecca Allen and Stephanie Talbot. Plenty of WNBA talent/overseas talent.
This team is ranked third in the world for a reason. Not an easy task for Canada. This game will take place at 6:30 am EST on Monday morning on Rogers Sportsnet.
If you want to receive updates on Team Canada as well as FIBA Women’s World Cup coverage on the blog from a new contributor, Andrew you may do so below.
Women's Basketball News and Opinions 