Canada’s men’s basketball team is gearing up for the 2027 FIFA World Cup qualifiers without some key players. General Manager Rowan Barrett announced the squad for the Americas qualifiers, featuring standout guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker from the Atlanta Hawks. The team also includes Luguentz Dort, Trae Bell-Haynes, Khem Birch, Marcus Carr, and other talented players.
The team is set to face Panama in Panama City before hosting Argentina in Quebec City. Notably, Toronto Raptors’ RJ Barrett and Bennedict Mathurin from the Los Angeles Clippers will serve as team ambassadors but will not participate in the games.
Injuries and other circumstances have led to the absence of NBA stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Dillon Brooks from the current qualifiers. Barrett emphasized the importance of managing various player situations, including injuries, fatigue, and contract issues, as the team prepares for the upcoming matches.
With a pool of over 50 committed athletes, Canada Basketball aims to build a strong team based on player availability and requirements. The team, currently ranked fifth globally, is focused on securing a spot in the 2027 World Cup in Qatar through strategic planning and player selection.
Alexander-Walker, coming off a remarkable season, has been recognized as the NBA’s most improved player. Alongside seasoned forward Kelly Olynyk, the team is poised to showcase a mix of talent and experience in the upcoming qualifiers. Dort, a Montreal native, is eager to play in front of his hometown fans during the game against Argentina in Quebec City.
As the team navigates through roster adjustments and player dynamics, Barrett remains optimistic about the team’s prospects and the valuable contributions of each player in the upcoming qualifiers.