BANGKOK, Thailand (Mar. 15, 2025) – Canada’s 3x3 Women’s National Team remains undefeated at the inaugural FIBA 3x3 Champions Cup, thanks to a win over China on Saturday.
Canada 21, China 11 (box score)
The victory over China, who is currently ranked the No. 1 federation in the FIBA 3x3 Women’s World Rankings, helped Canada finish first-place in Pool A and lock up their spot in Sunday’s semifinals as the field narrows from eight to four.
Canada rallied off a pair of wins on Friday over Germany and Madagascar, helping them enter the final day of competition with a 3-0 record.
Canada started slow on Saturday before finding their rhythm near the midway point of the contest. Trailing 8-7, Canada went on a 9-0 run off the backs of a pair of Paige Crozon makes from long-range to hop in front and take a 16-8 advantage. From there the Canadians were able to cruise to victory and remain unbeaten in Bangkok.
As a team, we are finding our flow and the actions/ sets that work best for this combination of players. In the second half, we found that rhythm by playing with pace and confidence. Defensively, we locked in, which led to some transition opportunities, quick buckets, and gaining momentum,” said Paige Crozon.
Katherine Plouffe led the way with a team-high 9 points on 8-13 shooting, to go along with 3 rebounds. Crozon chipped in with 6 points of her own, connecting on 3-5 attempts from long-range. Saicha Grant-Allen added 5 points and 4 rebounds.
Canada will take on Australia on Sunday at 2:45 am ET / 11:45 pm PT for a chance to advance to the inaugural gold medal game.
“Our focus is on staying disciplined defensively and bringing the joyful energy that allows us to play free. Australia is a tough, physical team, so we need defensive intensity, to control the boards, and to continue to find ways to score while progressing our actions,” said Crozon.
Spain and Germany will clash in the second semifinal. The gold medal game is set for 7:40 am ET / 4:40 am PT, while the bronze medal game will go down at 5:40 am ET / 2:40 am PT.
“It would mean a lot to be the first-ever Champions Cup winners, and make history. We also want to use this tournament as an opportunity to grow and improve as a team/program” said Crozon.
“The Champions Cup has been a great experience so far— competing against continent cup champions, an incredible atmosphere, and just an exciting event to be part of.”
FIBA’s newest 3x3 competition showcases the world's top 16 3x3 basketball teams, featuring continental cup champions, top-ranked teams in the FIBA 3x3 rankings, Olympic gold medalists, and the host nation, representing 12 countries in total. Canada secured their spot in the tournament with their AmeriCup gold medal victory in San Juan, Puerto Rico this past December.
The Champions Cup marks the start of the 2025 3x3 calendar, with the 2025 FIBA 3x3 World Cup in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia this June serving as its marquee highlight.