Netherlands goes undefeated in Toronto Challenge

The USA and the Netherlands closed the Toronto Challenge with wins against hosts Canada and Great Britain in the final games of women’s wheelchair basketball on Sunday (3 April) at the Mattamy Athletic Centre.

Rivals Canada and the USA faced off for a thrilling rematch in the opening game of the night. The game opened with an intense pace, with the teams matching each other shot for shot. However the USA managed to gain a 10 point lead by half-time. In the second half, the Canadians were once again outscored and trailed the USA for the remainder of the game. The final score was 74-47 in favour of Team USA.

The USA’s Rose Hollerman led all players with 23 points, while Cindy Ouellet and Arinn Young led the Canadians with 14 and 13 points, respectively.

The Netherlands had established themselves as the team to beat in the Toronto Challenge, and they remained undefeated in the final game of the friendly tournament. Although Great Britain opened the game with a strong defensive game by minimising offensive rebounds, they were unable to keep up with the Dutch. The Netherlands – 2015 European silver medallists – secured the win 72-46 over Great Britain.

Mariska Beijer secured 34 points for the Netherlands while Amy Conroy led Great Britain with 16 points.

The Toronto Challenge marks the first major test for the Canadian women as they proceed with team selections and preparations on the road to Rio 2016. Canada is the reigning world champion and the top-ranked team heading into the Paralympic Games.

Complete results from the Toronto Challenge can be found on Wheelchair Basketball Canada’s website.