Canada leaves Switzerland with 5th place finish at U19 FIBA World Cup
Although it wasn’t the result we expected, a 5th place finish doesn’t reflect the full extent of this team’s effort at the FIBA tournament.
It was an uphill climb from the start. While they won their first game against China, they struggled to shoot the ball, going an atrocious 3-for-27 from three-point range—all three makes coming from Spencer Ahrens. The same shooting woes carried into the next game against Slovenia, where they found themselves down by 17 points before mounting an incredible comeback to win by 19. Still, they shot just 8-for-24 from three in that game, with 5 of those 8 makes coming from Jordan Charles, who led the charge.
In their third game, they ran into basketball powerhouse Germany and lost by 16. At this point, they sat at 2–1, looking shaky to start.
This is when things began to turn around for Canada. They beat Mali by 25 and finally started to click as a team. Shots began falling, and their rhythm and confidence grew quickly as they figured out which lineups worked best.
Typically, in these FIBA tournaments—especially at the youth level—Canada and the USA meet in the deeper rounds. This time, however, Canada saw the US in the quarter-finals, and the game didn’t disappoint.
When we talk about expectations for our national team, it stems from knowing that Canada consistently produces world-class basketball talent at all levels. We truly have the talent to compete with anyone in the world—and Canada proved that against the USA in the quarter-finals.
In what was one of the most entertaining FIBA games in recent memory, Canada played with pride, toughness, effort, energy, and confidence right from the tip. They traded leads all game against a team filled with future NBA lottery picks and even led in the fourth quarter. Everyone who stepped on the court played their role at a high level. They showed no fear and never backed down—constantly attacking on offense and giving 110% on defense. Although they came up just short, it was a winnable game. Canada proved to the world they are capable of beating any country.
Standouts
2026 6’0 PG Jordan Charles
- Fearless PG. Showcased his elite level skill and instincts. A team with future NBA lottery picks on USA couldn’t even find an answer for Jordan Charles. Speaks volumes about his offensive ability, shotmaking, craftiness, and unpredictability at the guard spot. Was Canada’s most consistent performer and answered the call every single time. Whenever they struggled, he provided a spark. Already picked up multiple offers as the tournament went on and will only continue to get more. Can impact at any level. Major stockriser in 2026 class.
South Florida commit 6’6 W Tristan Beckford
- Tristan Beckford gained a lot of attention at this tournament, especially after his huge game against USA. Showed he’s just as capable as any prospect in the world. If you need him to score he can knockdown shots or finish inside. Defensively he guards the best player on the perimeter and has the vertical ability to protect the rim inside. As a competitor there aren’t many that play with the tenacity and energy he does. Are there things he can improve on? Sure. But his impact on the floor is undeniable and has always produced against the best players in the world. I believe his talent & motor will eventually get him into the conversation of being an NBA level prospect.
Butler commit 6’6 G Efeosa Oliogu
- Efeosa had some of the biggest moments for any player at the U19 FIBA WC. Massive poster dunks, highlight plays, and showed why he’s one of the most intriguing prospects going into college basketball this upcoming season. His slashing ability is second to none. Explosion, body control, elevation, and sheer power every time he gets downhill. He’s shown great improvements as a playmaker as well. Making reads, initiating offence, drawing second defenders off the bounce and making the right play. He’s not far off from being a finished product. Couple tweaks and he’ll also be a NBA draft prospect in due time.
Boise State commit 6’9 F Spencer Ahrens
When Canada was struggling to shoot at the start of the tournament, it seemed like Spencer was their sole floor-spacer. Shot 43% from 3 in the 7 games and was a steady contributor. Does a lot of great things at his size. Can be inserted into any offence because of his skill, size, and IQ. Will have a great impact at Boise State this upcoming season.
South Florida commit 6’5 PG Adriel Nyorha
It was an up and down tournament for Adriel Nyorha. However, during the biggest game for Canada against USA he showed out. Had 15 points 6 assists and 6 rebounds, and was aggressive creating advantages as a 6’5 PG. Got to his spots and showcased his shotmaking ability. His performance against top-tier talent validated just how high his ceiling can be.
What’s Next?
Going forward, I would have loved to see Canada bring more guard depth. There was no shortage of talented wings & forwards, but there were times where our offence and decision making was stagnant, especially without Jordan Charles on the floor. Justus Haseley would have been an ideal pick and would have ensured no drop-off in production between lineups.
All things considered, there were a lot of bright spots to be excited about when it comes to the future of not only this core group, but the future of Canada Basketball talent as a whole.
