Ahead of the game, the reigning NBA MVP appeared at the arena and came out for warmups, drawing attention for a markedly different hairstyle. Fans and media noted the transformation, with many taking to social media to comment on both players’ new looks. Comparisons between the two players’ hairstyles circulated online, with fans joking about how similar the fresh cuts made them appear.
During the game, Canada cruised to a 110-84 victory. Gilgeous-Alexander led all scorers with 26 points, four assists, and three rebounds, shooting 9-for-14 from the field and 1-for-4 from three-point range. Brooks contributed 15 points, two assists, and one rebound, going 7-for-12 overall and 1-for-4 from beyond the arc. In addition to these performances, Aaron Nembhard chipped in 23 points, helping Canada extend their lead and secure their fifth consecutive win in the qualifiers.
Canada currently leads Group B in the qualifying round, alongside Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas. The team’s consistent play and depth have helped maintain momentum as they push toward securing a place in the main tournament.
Following the win, Gilgeous-Alexander spoke with the media about Kawhi Leonard joining Toronto to rejoin the Raptors, after a high-profile trade involving Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick that saw additional assets move to Los Angeles. Gilgeous-Alexander commented on the impact of adding a player of Leonard’s caliber: “Adding a guy like that to your roster, no matter where you’re from or what team you are, amplifies everything. Your fanbase, your ability to play both ends of the floor, I mean, he’s a really good player. So it should be a good team next season.”
Kawhi Leonard, who had a strong season with the Clippers, finished seventh in MVP voting for the 2025-26 regular season, averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, while shooting 50.5% from the field and 38.7% from three-point range. Gilgeous-Alexander’s excitement about seeing Canada’s lone NBA franchise add an MVP-caliber player reflects the growing enthusiasm for Canadian basketball’s development and the potential for the sport to flourish even further in the country.
Note: This article focuses on the players’ performances, the qualifiers, and the broader implications for Team Canada’s program. All factual information has been preserved from the event coverage while avoiding references to original publication sources.
