Canadian women drop FIBA World Cup qualifying opener to Turkey

By Canadian Press on March 11, 2026.

ISTANBUL — Bridget Carleton scored a game-high 24 points as Canada erased a 19-point deficit, but ultimately fell 71-69 to Turkey in the FIBA women’s World Cup qualifying opener Wednesday.

Calgary’s Yvonne Ejim had 13 points and nine rebounds off the bench for Canada. Carleton of Chatham, Ont., also had five rebounds and two assists.

The Canadians were outscored 36-26 in the paint.

Canada fell behind 43-24 early in the second quarter before cutting the margin to single digits with a 16-4 run.

Canada took a 64-63 lead with 3:59 left in the game when Shaina Pellington finished a transition opportunity thanks to a steal by Aaliyah Edwards.

Canada’s next opponent is Hungary on Thursday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 11, 2026.

The Canadian Press

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