Canada’s men’s basketball team is gearing up for the next phase of qualifying for the 2027 FIFA World Cup, with some notable absences among the roster. General manager Rowan Barrett recently revealed the lineup for the Americas qualifiers, featuring top talent like Nickeil Alexander-Walker from the Atlanta Hawks.
The squad includes Luguentz Dort, who recently transitioned from the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Atlanta Hawks, 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. They will face Panama in Panama City and Argentina in Quebec City in the upcoming matches.
RJ Barrett from the Toronto Raptors and Bennedict Mathurin from the Los Angeles Clippers will serve as team ambassadors but will not participate in the games. NBA stars Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Dillon Brooks will also be absent from the roster due to various reasons, including injuries, fatigue, contract concerns, and training camp commitments.
Barrett emphasized the challenges of managing the team roster, given the players’ evolving circumstances and responsibilities as they age. Canada Basketball has a deep pool of over 50 dedicated athletes to draw from, ensuring a competitive and adaptable lineup for each game.
With a current world ranking of fifth, Canada aims to secure a spot in the 2027 World Cup in Qatar by excelling in the qualifiers. The team’s strategic selection for this round emphasizes a mix of experienced FIBA players and a balance between inside and outside playing styles.
Notably, Alexander-Walker’s standout performance in the NBA earned him the title of the league’s most improved player, showcasing his growth and dedication to the sport. Additionally, veteran forward Kelly Olynyk brings valuable experience to the team, having recently competed in the NBA finals with the San Antonio Spurs.
Barrett highlighted the significance of Olynyk’s commitment to the game and his leadership qualities, which will be invaluable during the upcoming matches. The upcoming game in Quebec City holds special meaning for Dort, a Montreal native, who looks forward to showcasing his skills in front of a hometown crowd against Argentina.
