Canada’s women’s basketball team takes first step toward 2028 Olympics at FIBA AmeriCup
As Delaney Gibb sat in her dorm room in Utah, watching her friend Syla Swords compete for Canada’s basketball team at the Paris Olympics, she couldn’t help but feel a surge of motivation. Even though Swords and her team didn’t achieve the desired results, Gibb was inspired by the experience.
The 19-year-old native of Raymond, Alta., has had an exceptional freshman season at BYU, earning the title of freshman of the year. Now, she finds herself on the cusp of potentially making her debut with Canada’s senior women’s team at the FIBA AmeriCup in Santiago, Chile.
The tournament, which kicks off on Saturday and concludes with the medal games on July 6, offers a coveted spot at the 2026 World Cup, which in turn serves as an Olympic qualifier for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. For Gibb, the dream of becoming an Olympic athlete is at the forefront of her aspirations.
Joining a team that is under the leadership of new head coach Nell Fortner, Gibb is eager to make her mark and contribute to Canada’s success. Fortner, a highly accomplished coach with a storied career, is focused on instilling a winning culture within the team.
The AmeriCup serves as an evaluation period for Fortner, who is without key players such as Kia Nurse, Bridget Carleton, and Aaliyah Edwards due to their WNBA commitments. Despite the challenges, Fortner is determined to mold the team into a cohesive unit that plays fast-paced, high-intensity basketball.
For Gibb, the opportunity to learn from a seasoned coach like Fortner and compete at the senior level is a significant step towards her Olympic aspirations. Her standout performance at BYU has already showcased her talent and potential to excel on the international stage.
Veteran players like two-time Olympian Kayla Alexander are also integral to the team’s success, providing leadership and experience. Alexander, who has been a stalwart in the Canadian team over the years, is eager to embrace a mentoring role and help guide the younger players.
As Canada gears up for the AmeriCup, the focus is on establishing a strong defensive foundation and revamping the team’s playing style. The players are committed to working together towards a common goal of winning a medal at the Olympics, building on the disappointment of past results.
Ranked seventh globally, Canada faces tough competition in their group, including Brazil, Argentina, Dominican Republic, and El Salvador. With a history of success in the tournament, Canada will look to reclaim the top spot and secure a place in the knockout rounds.
The AmeriCup marks the beginning of Canada’s journey towards the 2028 Olympics, with a new coach, a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent. As Gibb and her teammates take the court in Santiago, they are determined to lay the groundwork for future success and take a step closer to realizing their Olympic dreams.
