Kady Dandeneau scored 49 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, and dished out eight assists to lead Canada’s senior women’s wheelchair basketball team to an 88-68 victory over Japan in the quarterfinals of the IWBF World Wheelchair Basketball Championships 2026 in Ottawa.
The Wednesday matchup at the tournament saw the Canadian squad push their record to 6-0. With the win, Canada booked its ticket to the tournament semifinals, where a clash against the Netherlands awaits on Thursday at 7:15 p.m. EDT.
Dandeneau and Young Fuel Canada’s Quarterfinal Surge
From the opening tip, Canada asserted control on home soil. Dandeneau’s performance powered the attack, backed by Arinn Young, who posted a double-double of her own with 30 points and 11 assists. According to Wheelchair Basketball Canada, the hosts shot 67 percent from the field while limiting Japan to 45 percent.
Canada seized momentum early, building a 26-12 lead after the first quarter behind 12 points apiece from Dandeneau and Young. By halftime, the cushion stretched to 39-26 as Dandeneau poured in 21 points on 8-of-13 shooting. Though Japan mounted a push in the third quarter, reducing the deficit before a 66-54 Canadian edge heading into the final frame, the hosts maintained their composure.
Statistical Dominance in the Paint and at the Line
Canada’s efficiency extended beyond field goals. The team capitalized in the free-throw zone, holding a 46-18 advantage. Additionally, the Canadian defense forced errors, converting Japanese turnovers into 16 points.
Young proved lethal from long range, sinking 4 of her 5 attempts from beyond the arc on her way to 30 points. Dandeneau finished the contest having converted 20-plus points, dictating the pace of the floor alongside Young.
« Je pense qu’on est toutes assez excitées d’être en demi-finale », stated Rosie Long in remarks published by Wheelchair Basketball Canada. « Nous avons tenu bon et sommes extrêmement heureuses d’aller de l’avant. »
Looking Ahead to the Semifinals Against the Netherlands
With less than 24 hours between the final buzzer and Thursday evening’s showdown, the team emphasized immediate tactical adjustments. The demands of facing the Netherlands require tightened defensive rotations.
The semifinal matchup against the Netherlands is scheduled for Thursday at 7:15 p.m. EDT in Ottawa.
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