Team Canada’s women’s wheelchair basketball squad secured their spot in the championship final of the world championship by defeating the Netherlands with a score of 85-73 at the Arena at TD Place in Ottawa. The Canadian team will now prepare to face the United States in the gold-medal match scheduled for Saturday at 2:30 p.m. ET. In the earlier semifinal, the U.S. team triumphed over Great Britain with a score of 71-61.
Kady Dandeneau, a key player for Canada, showcased an exceptional performance in the semifinal, contributing 35 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists. The 36-year-old athlete from Pender Island, B.C., continued her stellar form from the previous quarterfinal match against Japan, where she tallied an impressive 49 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists.
Adding to Canada’s offensive prowess, Arinn Young also delivered a strong performance, recording 34 points, 12 rebounds, and 13 assists in the recent game. Young expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to compete on home soil, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming final.
The upcoming gold-medal clash against the U.S. holds special significance for the Canadian team, as they aim to improve upon their silver medal finish at the 2023 Parapan American Games. Young expressed confidence in Canada’s current form, highlighting the team’s cohesion and readiness for the anticipated final showdown. The last time Canada secured a podium finish at the world championships was in 2014 in Toronto, where Young was part of the successful squad.
Young reflected on the excitement of playing in front of a home crowd and praised the camaraderie among her teammates, underscoring the team’s unity and determination. The stage is set for a thrilling final, with Team Canada eager to showcase their improved performance and compete for the prestigious gold medal.
