Canada out of medal contention after loss to Spain at U17 Women’s World Cup

MINSK, Belarus – Canada was eliminated from medal contention at the FIBA U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup after a 72-50 loss to Spain in the round of 16 on Wednesday.

Merissah Russell of Ottawa and Brynn Masikewich of Calgary led Canada (2-2) with nine points apiece.

Spain extended a 14-12 lead after the first quarter to 35-18 at halftime.

“Unfortunately we were not the better team today, and Spain deserves to walk away with the win,” Canadian coach Jodi Gram said. “While this is definitely disappointing, we still have three games to get ready for and we plan to rediscover our sense of pride and playing for each other to end the tournament strongly.”

Canada will now enter the consolation side of the draw.