Canada defeated Australia 59-49 to win the bronze medal at the world women's wheelchair basketball championships in Birmingham, England July 17.

Canada lost 68-58 to the eventual world champions United States in the semifinals a day earlier. The U.S. edged Germany 55-53 in the title game.

Canada's only other loss was a 59-52 defeat to the Aussies in the final group game on July 12.

The women's national team, including Elisha Williams of Burnaby, got by Japan 62-39 in the opening playoff game to advance to the semis, following a 3-1 record in pool play.

In men's play at the world championships, Canada, including Ross MacDonald of Burnaby and Douglas College teammate Bo Hedges, finished in seventh place.

Canada defeated Turkey 71-61 for its final placing. Hedges scored five points for the winners.

In its opening playoff game, Canada lost to eventual fourth-place finishing Italy 63-47.

Great Britain knocked off Canada 67-51 in the second round of playoffs. Canada was 3-2 after pool play, including a 67-55 win over eventual silver medallists France.

Australia defeated France 79-69 for the gold medal.