Canadians to face France for World Cup gold in 3×3 basketball

Canada qualified for the women’s gold medal game in their first appearance at the FIBA ​​3×3 Basketball World Cup.

The 13th-ranked Canadians held on for a 16-14 semi-final win over Lithuania after leading by a whopping nine points with just under four minutes remaining in Antwerp, Belgium.

With less than 10 seconds left, Edmonton’s Michelle Plouffe missed a layup but a key block in the final seconds secured the win.

« I think that’s one of the characteristics of this team, having the ability to stay calm, » Plouffe said after the game. « We worked until the end. I’m so proud of this team.

« I feel like the goal has been achieved. We wanted to get on the podium. »

Canada will face France at 2:55 p.m. ET after the French got revenge with a 17-16 victory over China following a 16-14 loss in the Olympic bronze medal contest last year.

Play with a purpose

Michelle Plouffe gave the Canadians a 16-12 advantage before her sister, Katherine, missed a jump with 45 seconds on the clock.

Lithuania made it a two-point game after Martyna Petrenaite had two foul shots.

Canada entered the game with determination after a 14-10 quarter-final loss to two-time champions United States on Saturday.

After Lithuania made it 3-3 from the foul line, Canada went on a 9-1 run capped by a two-pointer from Paige Crozon to make it 12-4. Katherine Plouffe extended the lead to 15-6.

The medal games are scheduled for later on Sunday, with live coverage throughout the event available on CBCSports.ca, the CBC Sports app and CBC Gem.