Canada falls to U.S., takes silver at FIBA U18 Women’s Americas Championship

MEXICO CITY — For a brief moment it looked like Canada had a chance to capture gold at the FIBA under-18 Women’s Americas Championship.

But a strong start quickly burnt out as the United States pulled away in the second quarter en route to an 84-60 victory in the tournament final.

It’s the third straight silver for Canada at the event.

“I was really proud of our team tonight, but we played a very tough USA team,” said Canadian head coach Claire Meadows. 

“We started the game really well, stayed true to who we were, and played with pride and passion. It was a good ending to the tournament for us.”

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Christina Morra had 13 points and five rebounds as Canada lost its first game at the tournament after winning five straight to reach the championship.

The Canadians held an 18-14 lead after the first quarter, but were outscored by 12 in the second and found themselves down 39-31 at halftime.

Any chance of keeping it close went away in the third as the Americans held Canada to just nine points in the quarter and went into the fourth up 64-40.

American Nalyssa Smith had a game-high 18 points. 

Earlier in the day Argentina beat Colombia 62-52 in the third-place match.

Canada is already guaranteed a berth at the 2019 FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup by finishing in the top four in Mexico City.

The Canadian Press

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