Canada’s men’s basketball team is gearing up for the next round of the Americas qualifiers for the 2027 FIFA World Cup, with some notable absences from the roster.
General manager of Canada Basketball, Rowan Barrett, revealed the squad for the upcoming qualifiers, showcasing stars like Nickeil Alexander-Walker of the Atlanta Hawks.
Other key players joining Alexander-Walker include Luguentz Dort, Trae Bell-Haynes, Khem Birch, and several others, forming a strong lineup for the upcoming matches against Panama and Argentina.
Despite the absence of NBA talents like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Dillon Brooks, Barrett emphasized the depth of talent available and the need to balance the team roster effectively.
Injuries, contract issues, and other factors have influenced the selection process, with Barrett highlighting the importance of experience and toughness in the team composition.
The team, currently ranked fifth globally, aims to secure qualification for the World Cup, with tough challenges ahead against Panama and Argentina.
Alexander-Walker, coming off a stellar season, brings valuable skills and experience to the team, along with veteran forward Kelly Olynyk, adding leadership and expertise to the squad.
As the team prepares for the upcoming games, Barrett remains optimistic about the team’s chances and the contributions of each player, including hometown favorite Luguentz Dort from Montreal.
