It was an unexpected turn of events. Just days before finalizing a new collective bargaining agreement, paving the way for Canada’s first WNBA team’s debut season, the national team faced a setback. Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello’s Australian team dashed Canada’s hopes of World Cup qualification.
Reflecting on the match, Brondello expressed mixed feelings due to her dual roles. Despite the defeat, she commended Canada’s strong team and promising young talent, foreseeing a bright future for the squad. The WNBA will pause for over two weeks to accommodate players participating in the World Cup starting on September 4 in Berlin. Unfortunately, Canada, after a loss to Australia in March, missed out on the tournament despite a commendable fourth-place finish in the 2022 event.
In a more positive light, Canada dominated Mexico 83-53 in a pre-qualifying tournament, securing a spot in the 2028 Olympic qualifier. Syla Swords, a standout player alongside her sister Savvy, earned the tournament MVP title for her exceptional performance. This victory sets the stage for Canada to focus on team chemistry and player development over the next 17 months.
The team’s roster, a mix of experienced players like Kayla Alexander and emerging talents such as Syla Swords from the NCAA, impressed head coach Nell Fortner. Despite missing the World Cup opportunity, Fortner remains optimistic about Canada’s basketball future. With a strong foundation in place, Canada aims to make a mark at the upcoming Olympic qualifier.
The surge of Canadian talent in NCAA basketball aligns with the sport’s growth in the country. Fortner, drawing parallels from her experience in the US, foresees a similar rise in aspiring female basketball players in Canada. The WNBA’s expansion team, the Toronto Tempo, is poised to inspire young athletes across the country and foster a new generation of talent.
Looking ahead, Canada’s focus shifts to intensive preparation for the Los Angeles Olympics. Training camps and key tournaments like the FIBA AmeriCup will be crucial in honing the team’s skills and strategies. While Canada may not see immediate success, the groundwork laid now sets the stage for future achievements on the international basketball stage.
