June 2nd - The Canadian men's basketball team recently announced its initial core roster for the 2027 FIBA World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Two-time NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has confirmed his inclusion in the national team and will serve as the team's leader in the upcoming two international tournaments.

Alexander will join several NBA players for the Canadian national team, including his Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Lugentz Dort, Toronto Raptors' RJ Barrett, Phoenix Suns' Dillon Brooks, Los Angeles Clippers' Benedict Mathulin, and Atlanta Hawks' Nickeil Alexander-Walker.

However, Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray and Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins were not included in this year's roster. New head coach Gordie Herbert and general manager Rowan Barrett previously implemented a new policy requiring players to make a clear commitment to the national team's three-year plan.

" If players don't make a commitment this summer, they won't be included in the national team rosters for the next two major tournaments, " Herbert said at the press conference.

Herbert emphasized that building a national team cannot rely solely on the individual abilities of star players; it also requires a stable and long-term team culture. "In the past, we always thought about bringing the best players together, but that's not enough. What we need is the best team, the one most willing to give their all for the national team. Players must commit their time, stick to the plan, and focus on what they can contribute to the team."

Image source: Internet

Alexander confirms he will join the Canadian national team; Murray will not be included in national team plans.