Canada’s men’s basketball team will be without some key players for the upcoming 2027 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. General manager Rowan Barrett announced the roster for the Americas qualifiers, featuring standout names like Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luguentz Dort from the Atlanta Hawks. Trae Bell-Haynes, Khem Birch, Marcus Carr, and others also made the cut.
The team is set to face Panama in Panama City before heading back home to Quebec City to take on Argentina. Although NBA stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Dillon Brooks are absent from the lineup, Barrett explained that various factors, including injuries and other commitments, influenced the selection process.
With a pool of over 50 committed athletes, Canada Basketball aims to assemble the best team for success. The team, currently ranked fifth globally, is leading Group F with a perfect 6-0 record. The top three teams from each group and the best fourth-place team overall will secure spots in the 2027 World Cup.
Barrett emphasized the importance of experience and toughness in the team selection, especially for executing crucial plays during the qualifiers. Notably, Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s stellar performance last season earned him the NBA’s Most Improved Player award, adding a valuable dynamic to Canada’s lineup.
Veteran forward Kelly Olynyk, who reached the NBA finals with the San Antonio Spurs, brings leadership and experience to the team. Additionally, Luguentz Dort, a Montreal native, is eager to play in front of his hometown crowd when Canada faces Argentina. The team aims to leverage its depth and talent to secure victories in the upcoming matches.
