ISTANBUL, TURKEY – Canada is headed to the 5th place game tomorrow after an impressive 55-40 victory today over France, at the 2014 FIBA World Championship for Women.

Head Coach Lisa Thomaidis praised her team’s performance and determination in the win.

“I'm so impressed with how we bounced back from a disappointing result last night.  We came out and imposed our will on a very good French team,” Thomaidis said. “This win today is a great example of what can be accomplished when we have players willing to put in the commitment and dedication required to perform at a world-class level. Every win at the World Championship’s is a huge win, and we will be ready for another battle tomorrow.”

It was a brilliant performance for Canada right from the tip-off. They were able to keep France on their heels all game with undeniable intensity on defense, and execution on offensive, helping them establish a16-8 lead after the 1st quarter.

This momentum carried over into the 2nd, as Canada would begin the frame on a 13-0 run, led my Miranda Ayim (London, ON) who had eight points in the quarter. Canada would see their lead grow to 37-16 at the half, as France continued to struggle from the field shooting 32%, while also turning the ball over 13 times.

France would come out of the locker room with a much-improved effort, going on a 6-0 to start the 3rd to bring the deficit to within 13. Canada would hold the 47-32 advantage heading into the 4th though, with the help of veteran leadership from Shona Thorburn (Hamilton, ON) who was able to keep the momentum with excellent poise and ball control.  

Canada would not let up in the 4th quarter as their defense continued to give France trouble, holding them to under 10 points in the quarter for the third time in the game. The margin would remain at 15, ensuring Canada with the win and a guaranteed top six place at the tournament.

Shona Thorburn (Hamilton, ON) led Canada with her all around performance of nine points, five rebounds, four assists and 2 steals. Miranda Ayim (London, ON) also contributed 12 points, five rebounds and one block in the win.

Next up, Canada will play China in the battle for 5th place at the 2014 FIBA World Championship for Women. Tune in at 9:15am ET tomorrow, LIVE on NBATV Canada and tape-delayed on Sportsnet1.

Full box score from Canada vs. France:

http://www.fiba.com/world/women/2014/0410/Canada-France#|tab=boxscore_statistics

For the complete 2014 FIBA World Championship for Women schedule, go to

http://basketball.ca/en/team_programs/womens-team

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