CANADA FINISHES 4-2 AFTER FALLING TO FRANCE, 50-42

TORONTO, ON – The Women’s National Team concluded the first phase of the 2015 summer with a 50-42 loss to France in Arras, France.

“Today was an amazing opportunity again for us to play one of the best teams on the world, basically on their homecourt. We dug ourselves into a huge hole to start the game but showed tremendous resolve and toughness,” said Head Coach Lisa Thomaidis. “Our offence wasn’t up to par tonight but it’s a great learning opportunity to know what we need to improve upon to be beating some of these top teams in the world.”

Canada rallied after being down 17 early in the third quarter to make it a one-point game in the fourth quarter.

Kia Nurse starred for Team Canada, scoring 10 points on 3-6 shooting with three free throws. Celine Dumerc, who scored a game-high 14 points with three rebounds, led the French. For the full box score, play-by-play and shot chart, click here.

The first quarter was a slow start for the two teams playing their third game in as many days. France held Canada scoreless for the opening five minutes but the Women’s National Team played solid defence as well. Canada found themselves in an early hole, down 13-4 after one.

Both teams found their scoring touch in the second quarter, but France would increase their advantage. The European side’s consistency was the difference and they would lead Canada 28-14 at the break.

Canada put the first half behind them and orchestrated a strong third quarter. Though France would push their lead to 17, the Women’s National Team held them to seven points in the quarter. The Canadian offence would come together in the third as well with a variety of players contributing to the cause. Canada would trim the deficit to only three points after 30 minutes of play.

The late rally would fall short as France righted the ship in the final quarter. The Women’s National Team was outscored 15-10 and lose 50-42.

“The first half was very disappointing. It’s hard to play against France in France, but we made a bit of a comeback in the second half and gave them a good game,” said Miranda Ayim. “We have a lot of things to work on but it is great to play against one of the best teams in Europe.”

The next key portion of Team Canada’s summer is the Pan Am Games in Toronto. The women’s basketball competition takes place July 16-20. Following the Games, Canada will look to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics through the 2015 FIBA Americas Women’s Championship in Edmonton.

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For more information, please contact:



Bailey Williams

Manager, Communications

E-mail: bwilliams@basketball.ca

Cell: 647-460-7976



