​Reassuring the TikTok editors with ammunition, Canada head coach Gordie Herbert couldn’t help but grin. He fully grasped just how exceptional Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is. The two-time MVP has been the centerpiece of Canada’s golden era in international hoops. After returning to the court for the first time since the NBA playoffs, Gilgeous-Alexander powered Canada to an 110-84 victory over Puerto Rico in a 2026 FIBA World Cup qualifier. He poured in an effortless 26 points, underscoring the clear talent gap from the outset. Typically, your best players aren’t required to suit up for these summer events, and Canada is deep enough to secure a win without every NBA star. Many of the league’s household names sat out in street clothes. But with the game taking place in Gilgeous-Alexander’s hometown of Hamilton, Ontario, he owed the fans a performance, showcasing his mid-range game like a maestro.
Replacing Jordi Fernandez, Herbert is emphasizing continuity over raw on-paper talent. He’s asked for a three-year commitment from NBA players for future summers with the national team, aiming to compete at the 2027 FIBA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. It’s a roster approach that’s becoming common worldwide. Gilgeous-Alexander is leading by example, the face of the program, and he may already be on the path to surpassing Steve Nash as Canada’s greatest basketball player ever. Herbert praises his leadership, calling him “Canada’s national treasure”—a description that speaks to both his character and his impact. “Better person than a player,” Herbert said, praising his daily practice leadership, engagement, and unbelievable influence.
Drizzy fans embraced that opening line, with “National Treasures” pulling from Drake’s latest album. Drake, one of the world’s most prominent figures, has built a long-running relationship with Gilgeous-Alexander over the years, and the two recently watched the FIFA World Cup together. The musician also once surprised OKC by visiting to watch him play a few years back. Canada’s best success since Gilgeous-Alexander joined the program includes a bronze at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and a fifth-place finish at the 2024 Olympics. While NBA talent has come and gone, the two-time MVP remains the program’s centerpiece.
This recap originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Gordie Herbert on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: ‘[He’s] Canada’s national treasure’.