Canada’s men’s basketball team is gearing up for the next phase of the 2027 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with a notable lineup revealed by Canada Basketball general manager Rowan Barrett. The roster includes standout players like Nickeil Alexander-Walker of the Atlanta Hawks and Luguentz Dort, who recently joined the Hawks after a long tenure with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Other key additions to the team are Trae Bell-Haynes, Khem Birch, Marcus Carr, Mfiondu Kabengele, Kaza Kajami-Keane, Koby McEwen, David Muenkat, Nick Ongenda, Kelly Olynyk, Jackson Rowe, Thomas Scrubb, Keevan Veinot, and Kyle Wiltjer.
The team is set to face Panama in Panama City on Thursday and host Argentina in Quebec City on Monday. While NBA stars like RJ Barrett of the Toronto Raptors and Bennedict Mathurin of the Los Angeles Clippers will join the team as ambassadors, they will not be playing in the upcoming games.
In a recent statement, Rowan Barrett mentioned that Shaedon Sharpe was initially part of the roster plans; however, the 23-year-old Portland Trail Blazers guard sustained a meniscus injury and will be out of action for six months.
Several prominent NBA players, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Dillon Brooks, will be absent from the qualifiers due to various reasons such as injuries, fatigue, contract obligations, and training camp commitments. Barrett emphasized the challenges of managing player availability and highlighted the importance of building a strong, adaptable team.
Canada Basketball, currently ranked fifth globally, has maintained an unbeaten record in Group F with victories over Jamaica and Puerto Rico. The top three teams from each remaining group, along with the best fourth-placed team, will secure qualification for the 2027 World Cup in Qatar.
Barrett expressed the significance of experience and toughness in the team composition for the upcoming qualifiers. Notably, Alexander-Walker’s stellar performance in the previous season earned him the title of the NBA’s most improved player. Additionally, veteran forward Kelly Olynyk brings leadership and experience to the squad following his recent NBA Finals appearance with the San Antonio Spurs.
The upcoming games hold special significance for Montreal-native Luguentz Dort, who may have hometown support when Canada faces off against Argentina in Quebec City. Barrett highlighted Dort’s eagerness to showcase his skills in front of familiar faces, underscoring the emotional connection to playing in one’s home province.