Canada's women claimed basketball gold at the Pan American Games for the first time ever on Monday.

Kia Nurse, 19, had 33 points as Canada recorded an 81-73 win over United States in the gold medal match.

Nurse also had six rebounds and three assists, while Natalie Achonwa chipped in with 13 points and Tamara Tatham added 10 for the victors.

Breanna Stewart had a double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds for record seven-time winners USA, who had led 23-13 after the first quarter.

But after levelling at half-time, Canada cleared away with a 26-point third quarter that set up their win.

For USA, their last title came in 2007 and they will have to wait a little longer if they are to add an eighth crown.

Cuba won bronze after a 66-62 win over Brazil.

USA still top the medal count with 169 – 65 of which have been gold – at this year's Games, while Canada are second with 148.