Slovenia coach believes Canada can 'go all the way' in FIBA World Cup

Slovenia coach Aleksander Sekulic had said it before, and he's saying it again: Canada is a title contender.

The Slovenian mentor believes Canada has what it takes to win the 2023 FIBA World Cup altogether after his side was sent crashing back to earth by the Road Warriors on Wednesday in their quarterfinal clash.

Canada features a star-studded lineup, headlined by seven NBA players in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Dillon Brooks, Lu Dort, RJ Barrett, Kelly Olynyk, and Dwight Powell. And even with Luka Doncic on its side, Slovenia came up short against the Canadians as they were relegated to the classification phase against Lithuania.

"Canada is a hell of a team. They have everything they need to go all the way. I think they can match up with the United States," Sekulic said.

"I said this before the start of the tournament that Canada is one of the favorite teams to win the medal, and I still stand [by that]."

While Sekulic's statement could be true, it might not be an easy road for Canada.

The world no. 15 Canada will have its plate full in the semifinals, where it will take on powerhouse Serbia in another knockout affair. Serbia, of course, is bannered by Bogdan Bogdanovic, Filip Petrusev, and Nikola Jovic with decorated mentor Svetislav Pesic at the helm.

Despite the absence of reigning NBA Finals MVP Nikola Jokic, Serbia has made an impressive run in the tournament after sweeping the first round while splitting its second round games.

Still, Sekulic knows Canada is a talented squad.

"They are a great team, they have great players, and a coach."

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News