Canada's senior women's national basketball team has made a big change.
The team and head coach Víctor Lapeña have mutually agreed to part ways, Canada Basketball announced Monday.
“On behalf of the Senior Women’s National Team and our Women’s High Performance program, I’d like to thank Víctor for his efforts in leading our team,” said general manager and executive vice-president Denise Dignard in a statement. “The organization would also like to express our sincere appreciation to Víctor and his family for their dedication and sacrifice over the last several years and wish them all the best in the future."
Lapeña was hired as head coach in January 2022. He led the team to a 17-10 record in FIBA competitions during his time as head coach, which included a bronze medal at the FIBA Women’s AmeriCup 2023 and a fourth-place finish at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2022.
However, the team had a disappointing showing at the 2024 Olympics and was eliminated in the group stage after finishing 0-3.
Earlier this year, in consultation with Canada Basketball, Lapena was hired by the Turkish club Cukurova Basketbol Kulubu.
Following the Olympics, it was decided it would be best for him to focus his efforts on his pro team as it competes in the EuroLeague Women and other national competitions, the federation said.
Canada Basketball said it's currently assessing its training and competition calendar in the leadup to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games and that a head coaching search will be part of that process.
The Canadians are ranked No. 7 in the FIBA world basketball rankings.
-- With files from the Canadian Press
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