Canada captured the sole berth for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games after an unbeaten run in the FIBA Olympic Pre‑Qualifying Tournament, finishing the competition with a flawless 5‑0 record.
The championship match ended in a 83‑53 victory over host Mexico, a result that not only crowned Canada champions but also cemented their place in the final qualifying stage scheduled for February 2028.
A MVP Performance That Defined the Tournament
Syla Swords, the University of Michigan standout, was named MVP after averaging 14.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.0 steal per game across five contests.
She shot 45 percent from three‑point range, dishing out 3.6 triples per game and scoring in double figures in every match, a consistency that proved decisive for her team.
Her closest brush with a double‑double came in the group victory over Mexico, where she contributed 17 points and nine rebounds before the final showdown.
Beyond the statistics, Swords' all‑court impact illustrated the rising competitiveness of Canadian women's basketball on the world stage.
The road ahead will see Canada join the final stage of Olympic qualification in February 2028, where they will compete for a spot in the Los Angeles Games.
Swords' performance also highlights the continued influence of collegiate programs, with her roots at the University of Michigan underscoring the pipeline of talent that fuels international success.