Canada’s national basketball team faced a setback just days before the WNBA finalized an agreement to launch Canada’s first WNBA team. The team was ousted from World Cup contention by Australian coach Sandy Brondello’s Toronto Tempo squad. Despite the defeat, Brondello expressed sympathy for Canada, recognizing their potential with talented players like the Swords sisters emerging from the college system.
While Canada won’t be competing in the upcoming World Cup after a loss to Australia, they secured a spot in the 2028 Olympic qualifier by dominating Mexico in a pre-qualifying tournament. Syla Swords, a rising star at just 20 years old, was named tournament MVP for her stellar performance.
The Canadian team, consisting of a mix of experienced veterans and young talents, showcased great potential in the tournament. Head coach Nell Fortner praised the commitment and skill of the younger players, especially highlighting Swords’ exceptional abilities.
Fortner acknowledged the missed opportunity for Canada at the World Cup but emphasized the importance of their achievements in the pre-qualifying tournament. With a strong foundation of players, including promising NCAA talents like Swords, Canada is focused on future growth and success in international competitions.
The abundance of Canadian talent at the NCAA level has sparked excitement, with Fortner and WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert recognizing the potential for growth in women’s basketball in Canada. Looking ahead, Canada aims to prepare diligently for the upcoming Olympic qualifier and other key tournaments to solidify their presence on the global basketball stage. Despite setbacks, the Canadian team remains optimistic about their future prospects and the potential for continued success in international competitions.
