Andrew Wiggins’ history with the Canadian selection is complicated. While he had participated in the U17 World Cup and the U18 Americas Championship, he then only returned to the A team twice, during the 2015 Americas Championship, the team failing to qualify directly for the 2016 Olympics, then during the 2020 TQO, Canada also failing, at home, to obtain its ticket for the 2021 Olympics…
Given that he only committed to the Maple Leaf selection for two campaigns, each time to try to reach the Olympic Games, we can think that only this competition motivates him on an international level. . Besides, he assures that he “would love” to participate at the Paris Olympics next year!
“This year was difficult because I finished the season with a broken rib” he explains about his package at the last World Cup. “But the goal for next year is to be with them in Paris. It was hard. But they did a good job. They qualified, which we hadn’t done in a long time. All the guys worked hard, led by Shai [Gilgeous-Alexander]Dillon [Brooks] and R.J. [Barrett]. It’s great for them.”
Canada can now do without Andrew Wiggins
By joining this group, the first choice of the 2014 Draft logically thinks he can allow Canada to aim even higher than 3rd place in the last World Cup. “Our chances are good (to win gold). We really have a great team” he concludes on this subject.
It remains to be seen, however, whether Canada is still as interested in Andrew Wiggins.
For years, the national team chased the player because he represented their best chance to shine on an international scale. But with the takeover of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and those who accompanied him to bronze in the Philippines, his presence is no longer really a priority.
“I think we now need to focus on the players who are here, who are committed to playing, and who have put in excellent performances.” Rowan Barrett, the general manager of Canada, recently explained. “Unless I’m mistaken, Dillon Brooks plays the same position as Wiggins. My point is, the guys we have aren’t bad. So we’re going to continue the season, see where we are and see what physical state everyone is in. I think the direction we take will take shape. I’m not evading anything, but I just think it’s premature to answer this question. »
