Canada opened the bracket phase at the FIBA U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup with another dominating victory, taking down New Zealand 70-36.
Unlike previous games in the tournament, Canada’s big two of Cassandre Prosper and Toby Lee Fournier were kept relatively in check with the tournaments leading scorer, Fournier, scoring eight points and grabbing six rebounds. Prosper chipped in eight points as well, had nine rebounds, four steals, three assists and three blocks.
Delany Gibb who had been the clear cut third option on the team had an off night as well with two points and scoring 14 per cent from the field.
With all three moving into supporting roles the depth of Canada began to show, Taija Sta Maria stepped up for Canada to lead all scorers with 17 points and two steals. Lo-Ellen Park Secondary prospect Syla Swords had nine points, three rebounds and all but one member of the Canadian roster that touched the floor had at least two points in the game.
New Zealand was led by Ritorya Tamilo with eight points and six rebounds, as the Canadian defence once again recked havoc in the passing lanes, forcing 36 turnovers.
The quarter-final match ups are set, and Canada will be taking on host nation Hungary, who took down Argentina 82-53 in their Round of 16 match up. Hungary finished first in Group A with a perfect three-win record.
Thursday will be a break day for the tournament, but the game will be broadcast on FIBA’s YouTube channel at 11:30 a.m. EST on Friday.
Game 4 Round of 16 Canada vs. New Zealand boxscore click HERE.
Toby Fournier gets Canada hyped with this pre-game 2-hand dunk (Courtesy FIBA)
Game 5 Quarterfinals Canada vs. Hungary Livestream below:
