Canada enters the FIBA World Cup behind stellar play in the qualifiers from the NBA duo of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Kelly Olynyk. While this will be the country’s 15th appearance in the World Cup, new head coach Jordi Fernandez’s squad could be one of the best to ever represent Canada. Their roster is filled with NBA talent and depth which will make them serious contenders for the Naismith Trophy. Their first matchup will be an exciting one against France.
Active NBA Players
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Minnesota Timberwolves)
- RJ Barrett (New York Knicks)
- Dillon Brooks (Houston Rockets)
- Luguentz Dort (Oklahoma City Thunder)
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
- Kelly Olynyk (Utah Jazz)
- Dwight Powell (Dallas Mavericks)
Coach: Jordi Fernandez
What to Watch
Canada has a loaded roster full of NBA talent, but they’ll be down at least one standout player after Jamal Murray announced he will miss World Cup play. That means they’ll need everyone to step up to advance through a difficult group. France, Latvia and Lebanon join Canada in Group H and only the top two will advance to the second round. Canada will be tested early, but if they can persevere, they put themselves in a great position to secure the Naismith Trophy.
Group Play Schedule
- Aug. 25: Canada vs. France (9:30 a.m. ET)
- Aug. 27: Canada vs. Lebanon (5:45 a.m. ET)
- Aug 29: Canada vs. Latvia (9:30 a.m. ET)
