IRAPUATO (Mexico) – The United States extended its run at the FIBA U16 Women’s AmeriCup, adding another trophy to the collection with an 85-59 win over Canada in Sunday’s Final at the Inforum in Irapuato, Mexico. It marked the fifth consecutive title for the Americans and eighth in the tournament’s nine editions. The only time the nation failed to win was in 2015. USA also finished this year’s competition undefeated in six games, improving their all-time record to 48–1.
The USA had already secured its spot at the 2026 FIBA U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup, which will be held next year in the Czech Republic. There, the team will aim for its fourth straight and seventh overall world championship. Canada, Mexico, and Colombia will join them as representatives of the Americas. Forward Ivanna Wilson was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Meanwhile, Canada earned its seventh runner-up finish in tournament history and was unable to repeat the feat from a decade ago in Puebla, Mexico, where they won gold after defeating Brazil in the Final.
Turning point
The reigning champions came out with intensity and set the tone early, putting up 30 points in the first quarter while allowing just 17. Micah Ojo scored 10 points in the opening frame, followed by Eve Long with 6. Ojo, Ivanna Wilson, and Tatianna Griffin each knocked down a three-pointer during the run. The 13-point lead after the first quarter was all the USA needed, as their depth allowed them to maintain control for the remainder of the match.
Player of the game
Micah Ojo edged out teammate Wilson to earn Player of the Game honors. She led all scorers in the Final with 18 points, adding 7 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 steals while missing just one shot in six attempts from the field.
Wilson also had a standout performance, recording a double-double with 14 points (including two three-pointers) and 11 rebounds, along with 4 blocks and 2 steals. For Canada, Avery Arije led the way with 13 points, including two three-pointers. Frances Vollett followed with 9 points.
Stats don’t lie
The Americans' depth at every position and strength in the paint were key throughout the tournament, and the Final was no exception. Their bench contributed 38 points, led by Tatianna Griffin with 11, and outrebounded Canada 49–40. The USA also scored 44 points in the paint and registered 11 blocks.
Bottom line
This year marks a decade since the only loss the U.S. has suffered in the history of the tournament. That defeat came in the 2015 Semi-Finals against Brazil, which forced them to settle for third place. Since then, they’ve won 30 straight games.
Final standings
1. United States* 2. Canada* 3. Mexico* 4. Colombia* 5. Argentina 6. Venezuela 7. Puerto Rico 8. Panama (*Qualified for the 2026 FIBA U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup)
FIBA