Toronto, ON - The U19 Women's National Team's 5-8 Classification Game ended in a 70-64 loss to Belgium at the FIBA World Championships in Chekhov, Russia.

"The girls played extremely hard for 40 minutes," said Canada Head Coach, Rich Chambers. "Their effort was fantastic and now we have to get ready to try to finish seventh."

Chatham native, Bridget Carleton finished the game with 20 points on 4-17 shooting to go along with 6 rebounds while Bridget Atkinson chipped in with 11 points. Belgium's Julie Allemand finished with 24 points while shooting 44% from the field. For a full box score, click here.

The game started off with both teams playing well as the score was tied at 9-8 for Canada midway through the quarter. Team Canada played efficient offense with Atkinson scoring 7 points in the frame. After one quarter of play, Canada led 18-16.

Canada looked to extend their lead in the second quarter against Belgium. Throughout the quarter, Canada's offense slowed down which led to the team to score 14 points in the frame. Victoria native, Lauren Yearwood was a bright spot in the quarter as she established her presence in the paint by scoring a basket and grabbing 4 rebounds. Heading into the half, Canada trailed Belgium 38-32.

Coming out of the half, Canada looked to regain the lead. Off of the bench, Cheyenne Creighton scored 5 points and grabbed 3 rebounds, but it was the Belgians maintained their lead and outscored Canada in the quarter - 13-12. Going into the fourth quarter, Canada trailed USA 51-44.

The U19 Women's National Team came into the fourth quarter looking to salvage the game. After the Belgians took a 9-point lead with less than 90 seconds to play, Canada came storming back thanks to Carleton hitting a jump shot and a three-pointer. Team Canada managed to cut the lead to 68-64 with 17 seconds left, but there was not nearly enough time for Canada to complete the comeback. Belgium went on to beat Canada 70-64.

"We came to battle as a team," said Atkinson. "Now we have to regroup and try to end this tounament on a positive note."

Team Canada will play in a 7-8 Classification Game against China on July 26 in Chekhov, Russia. The winner of that game will be placed 7th in the tournament.

For the full U19 Women's National Team Roster and coaching staff, click here.

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