Hoyt and MacDonald capture bronze with Team Nova Scotia at Canada Games

Future Acadia Axewomen Ella Hoyt and Isobel MacDonald capped their summer with a bronze medal as members of Nova Scotia’s women’s basketball team at the 2025 Canada Summer Games.

The pair, who have committed to the Axewomen program for the 2026-27 season, helped Nova Scotia to a 74–45 win over British Columbia in the bronze medal game. It marked only the third medal in provincial history for women’s basketball at the Games. They were joined on the bench by Team Nova Scotia head coach and current Acadia assistant coach Haley McDonald.

A First Taste of the Games

For Hoyt, a guard from Dartmouth and Halifax Grammar School, the multi-sport environment was unforgettable.

“It was a great experience with the opportunity to meet new people and watch sports I’ve never seen before,” she said. “Being in a place where everyone has the same goals and mindset is a feeling I won’t forget.”

MacDonald, a forward from Port Williams and Horton High School, echoed that sentiment.

“Being surrounded by so many athletes made me realize I’m part of a much bigger and more diverse athletic community in Canada,” she said. “The energy throughout the Games was incredible.”

Beyond the Court

Both players highlighted the opening ceremonies as a standout moment.

Hoyt described the spectacle: “The music, dancing, lights and decorations made it so special. Wearing Nova Scotia on our chests and representing our province made it even more meaningful.”

For MacDonald, the sheer scale of the event left an impression. “Seeing all the athletes gathered in one place put into perspective just how big these Games are compared to any other event I’ve been part of,” she said.

Pin trading in the athlete village also became a fun way to connect with competitors from across the country.

Pride in the Jersey

Representing Nova Scotia carried special meaning for both athletes.

Hoyt said, “It was an unreal experience that helped reshape what Nova Scotia basketball is about. Our fans are like no one else — their chants and cheers motivated us through challenging games.”

For MacDonald, this tournament marked her last chance to wear the provincial jersey. “I take a lot of pride in representing Nova Scotia, and it means a lot to showcase what our small province can do on the national stage,” she said.

The Bronze Medal Game

Nova Scotia entered the matchup against B.C. determined.

“This was the game we were all waiting for,” Hoyt said. “We were locked in from the start with the mindset that we were going home with a bronze medal. All of our training and countless hours in the gym were for this moment.”

MacDonald added, “From the start of the summer, our goal was to medal. For many of us, it was our last chance to represent Nova Scotia, so we wanted to make a lasting impact. We just had to be confident and play our game.”

The team delivered, controlling the pace and securing a historic 74–45 victory.

Growth Through Experience

Both players pointed to the Games as a key step in their development.

Hoyt noted the value of high-pressure situations. “It gave me experience performing under pressure and confidence that I can make plays in those situations.”

MacDonald said the experience pushed her to raise her game. “Competing with the best in the country strengthened my leadership and communication skills and taught me the importance of trusting my teammates,” she said.

Hoyt and MacDonald will now look ahead to their final seasons of high school basketball before joining the Axewomen in 2026. Their Canada Games success, alongside McDonald’s leadership, leaves a clear message: Nova Scotia basketball continues to make its mark on the national stage.