Twenty-five years back, Vince Carter showcased his prowess in the NBA’s Slam Dunk contest, sparking a wave of inspiration among young Canadian basketball enthusiasts. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from Hamilton is poised to make a similar impact on Sunday as the lone Canadian participant in the NBA’s All-Star Game. Mark Tatum, the NBA’s deputy commissioner, recently drew parallels between the influence of Carter and the Toronto Raptors on Canadian basketball and the potential of Gilgeous-Alexander to motivate a wider fan base.
During a virtual meeting with basketball journalists worldwide, Tatum expressed admiration for the growth of basketball in Canada, noting the increasing number of Canadian players in the NBA, attributing it to the Raptors’ influence. Gilgeous-Alexander, currently playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder, is averaging impressive statistics of 32.5 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.1 rebounds. This marks his third consecutive season scoring over 30 points per game, solidifying his candidacy as an MVP contender once again.
Gilgeous-Alexander will team up with international stars on Team Chuck, led by Hall of Famer Charles Barkley for the upcoming game. Notable players joining him include three-time MVP Nikola Jokic from Serbia, French standout Victor Wembanyama, and former Raptors standout Pascal Siakam from Cameroon. Tatum highlighted how these global talents are instrumental in expanding the sport’s popularity worldwide, citing players like Steve Nash and Gilgeous-Alexander as inspirations for the next generation of athletes.
Anticipating a positive impact, Tatum mentioned the upcoming Toronto Tempo, a new WNBA team set to debut in 2026, drawing a parallel to the growth expected in women’s basketball in Canada. He referenced the overwhelming response to WNBA games held in Canada previously, emphasizing the rising enthusiasm for women’s sports, particularly basketball. Tatum believes the new team’s arrival in Toronto will further elevate the profile of women’s basketball in the country.
Overall, the NBA’s international presence, coupled with the success of Canadian players like Gilgeous-Alexander, is poised to shape the future of basketball in Canada and inspire a new generation of athletes across the country.
