IRAPUATO, MEXICO (June 20, 2025) – Canada’s U16 Women’s National Team is headed to the semifinals of the FIBA U16 Women’s AmeriCup 2025 after defeating Puerto Rico 72-47 on Friday in Irapuato, Mexico.

With the win, Canada has officially qualified for the FIBA U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026, marking another milestone for the country’s rising generation of talent.

Pippa Gibb led the way for Canada with a team-high 14 points to go with six assists, and four steals, in a dominant two-way performance. Frances Vollett added 12 points on four-of-five shooting, along with three rebounds and steals apiece.

After a close first quarter, Canada blew the game open in the second frame with a 14-0 run, sparked by a trio of three pointers from Portia Reisen, Vollett and Avery Arije and never looked back. Canada dominated the paint, out-rebounding Puerto Rico 54-34 — including 18 on the offensive glass — and imposed their will defensively with 11 blocks to Puerto Rico’s five.

“I think I did a good job attacking my defender and making smart reads,” said guard Avery Arije. “As a team, we were really successful on the offensive boards and played with a lot of hustle.”

Canada's intensity on the glass and commitment to team defence proved to be the difference, holding Puerto Rico to just 31.1% shooting from the field. Canada also forced 29 turnovers and turned them into 25 points.

“This group has come together in a very short period, and have impacted and inspired each other to be great for each other and Canada,” said Head Coach Fabienne Blizzard. “We have a very special group of young ladies — the future is so bright for Canada. So proud of this group. We have qualified for World’s once again. Qualifying is just the beginning. Our goal now is to perform at our best as we get into playoffs.”

Canada will now play in the semifinal on Saturday (7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT), with a spot in the gold medal game on the line.