Edwards has game-high 22 points, 15 rebounds as Canada drops 66-62 decision to Japan

By Canadian Press on March 15, 2026.

ISTANBUL — Aaliyah Edwards scored a game-high 22 points and added 15 rebounds as Canada dropped a 66-62 decision to Japan on Sunday at the FIBA women’s basketball World Cup qualifying tournament.

Edwards finished eight-of-11 from the field for Canada (2-2). Shay Colley and Kayla Alexander both added 12 points.

Mai Yamamoto led Japan (1-2) with 16 points.

The contest was a close one with Canada leading 21-18 after the first quarter before the two teams went into halftime tied 39-39. Japan took a 54-50 lead into the fourth which was the final margin of victory as both teams scored 12 points in the final quarter.

The loss was a big one for Canada. A victory would’ve automatically qualified the Canadians for the World Cup, which runs from Sept. 4-13 in Berlin, Germany.

Canada takes on Australia (3-0) on Tuesday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 15, 2026.

The Canadian Press