(Bridgeport, Connecticut) - Canada’s Senior Women suffered a tough 76-51 loss on Monday night against Team USA in an exhibition game, as they continue their final preparations for the 2014 FIBA World Championship at the end of the month.

Canada had a strong start to the first and second quarters, as they were able to keep the game close with key defensive stops and strong team play. Trailing 35-31, Katherine Plouffe (Edmonton, AB) led the way for the Canadians at the half with 4 points, and Lizanne Murphy (Beaconsfield, QC) chipped in with 3 points of her own.

Team USA came out of the locker room on a 9-0 run to start the 3rd, as they were able to push the ball and execute on the offensive end, while forcing Canada to take tough shots. Down 57-41 heading into the fourth quarter, Canada was able to pick up the pace and battle hard, but weren’t able to overcome the large deficit, losing 76-51.

Team Canada’s Katherine Plouffe (Edmonton, AB) led all scorers with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists, while Tamara Tatham (Brampton, ON) poured in 10 points (4/6 FG). The USA was led by Nnemkadi Ogwumike who provided 10 points in the balanced attack.

“Nothing but positives to take away from tonight, said Lisa Thomaidis, Head Coach. We had a great 20 minutes against the best team in the world. At times our youth and inexperience showed but we remained composed through adversity when they picked up their defensive intensity in the 3rd quarter.  I’m proud of how we remained mentally focused and competitive against a tough opponent.”

Canada will now head to Spain this weekend, where their will face both Cuba (Sept.19th) and Spain (Sept.20th) in exhibition games, before heading off to Turkey for the 2014 FIBA World Championship from Sept 27 to Oct 5.

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