Canada’s men’s basketball team is gearing up for the next phase of the 2027 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a notable roster. The squad, announced by Canada Basketball’s general manager Rowan Barrett, features key players such as Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luguentz Dort from the Atlanta Hawks, among others.
The team, set to face Panama in Panama City and Argentina in Quebec City, will also have ambassadors RJ Barrett of the Toronto Raptors and Bennedict Mathurin of the Los Angeles Clippers on board, although they will not compete in the matches.
Notably absent from the roster are prominent NBA stars Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Dillon Brooks, with Barrett citing various reasons for player exclusions, including injuries, contract matters, and training commitments.
Despite the challenges, Canada Basketball remains optimistic, leveraging a deep pool of over 50 committed athletes to assemble competitive lineups. The team’s current top ranking and unbeaten record in Group F position them well for qualification to the 2027 World Cup in Qatar.
Emphasizing a mix of experienced players and FIBA veterans, Barrett underscores the importance of execution and toughness in the upcoming qualifiers. Standout performances are expected from players like Alexander-Walker, who earned the NBA’s Most Improved Player award for his stellar season.
Veteran presence will be provided by Kelly Olynyk, a seasoned forward with NBA Finals experience, adding leadership to the team. The upcoming games hold significance for players like Dort, who could have a special connection playing in front of hometown fans in Quebec City.
With a blend of talent and experience, Canada’s basketball team is poised for success as they navigate the challenging road to the 2027 World Cup.