Canada’s men’s basketball team will be missing some key players as they gear up for the 2027 FIFA World Cup qualifications. General manager Rowan Barrett recently announced the roster for the Americas qualifiers, highlighting the presence of Nickeil Alexander-Walker from the Atlanta Hawks. Other notable names joining the squad include Luguentz Dort, Trae Bell-Haynes, Khem Birch, and Kelly Olynyk, among others.
The team is set to face Panama in Panama City before heading to Quebec City to host Argentina. Notably, NBA stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Dillon Brooks will not be part of the roster for this round of qualifiers due to various reasons, including injuries and other commitments.
Rowan Barrett emphasized the depth of talent within Canada Basketball’s player pool, allowing flexibility in team selections based on individual circumstances. The team’s current focus is on building a cohesive unit that blends experience and toughness for optimal performance in the upcoming games.
One standout player to watch is Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who had a remarkable season and was named the NBA’s most improved player. Additionally, veteran forward Kelly Olynyk brings leadership and experience to the team, having recently competed in the NBA finals.
The Canadians, currently ranked fifth globally, are leading Group F with a perfect 6-0 record. The top teams from the remaining groups, along with the best fourth-placed team, will secure spots in the 2027 World Cup in Qatar. As the team navigates through challenges and changes in the roster, Barrett remains optimistic about Canada’s prospects in the upcoming qualifiers.