It was an unfortunate turn of events just three days prior to finalizing the launch of Canada’s first WNBA team when the country’s national team faced a setback in World Cup qualification, losing to the Australian team led by Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello. Despite the disappointment, Brondello acknowledged the strength of the Canadian team and their promising young players, expressing confidence in their future prospects.
Although Canada will not be participating in the upcoming World Cup in Berlin due to a previous loss to Australia, they secured a spot in the 2028 Olympic qualifier after dominating a pre-qualifying tournament by defeating Mexico. Syla Swords, a standout 20-year-old player, was named the tournament MVP, showcasing her talent alongside other promising players like Savvy Swords.
The Canadian team, a mix of experienced veterans and emerging talents, demonstrated strong teamwork and commitment during the pre-qualifying tournament. Head coach Nell Fortner praised the dedication of the younger players and highlighted Swords’ exceptional performance, emphasizing her potential as a future basketball star for Canada.
Despite missing out on the World Cup opportunity, Fortner remains optimistic about the team’s progress and sees the upcoming months as a valuable period to develop chemistry and skills. The Canadian team, now ranked seventh by FIBA, aims to continue building on its recent successes and prepare for future competitions, including the FIBA AmeriCup and the Los Angeles Olympics.
The surge of Canadian talent at the NCAA level has been a notable trend, reflecting the growing interest and participation in basketball across the country. Fortner and WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert both emphasized the potential impact of the Toronto Tempo on inspiring young girls to pursue basketball and elevate the sport’s popularity in Canada.
While Canada faces challenges in its basketball journey, the foundation is set for progress and success in future international competitions. Despite setbacks, the team’s determination and resilience position them well for a brighter future on the global basketball stage.
