Gordie Herbert on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: '[He's] Canada's national treasure'

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Supplying TikTok editors with ammo, Canada head coach Gordie Herbert couldn't help but smile. He understands just how special a talent Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is. The two-time MVP winner has headlined the country's golden era of international hoops.

Returning to the court for the first time since the NBA playoffs, Gilgeous-Alexander carried Canada to an 110-84 win over Puerto Rico in the 2026 FIBA World Cup qualifier. He had an easy-peasy 26 points as the talent discrepancy was noticeable from the jump.

Usually, your best players don't need to suit up for this summer's events. Canada is deep enough to punch its ticket on its own. Most of the other NBA household names sat out in street clothes. But considering this matchup took place in Gilgeous-Alexander's hometown of Hamilton, Ontario, he owed it to fans to see him work the mid-range like a maestro.

Taking over for Jordi Fernandez, Herbert is prioritizing continuity over on-paper talent. He's requested a three-year commitment to Canada if NBA players want to represent their country in these next two summers at the 2027 FIBA World Cup and 2028 Olympics. That's a roster trend you're seeing across the globe in recent years.

Gilgeous-Alexander is leading by example on that front. He's easily the face of the program. And has a good chance at passing by Steve Nash for the best Canadian basketball player ever — if it hasn't happened already. Herbert is appreciative of his leadership skills.

"I call him Canada's national treasure," Herbert said. "Better person than a player. I think that tells you what kind of person he is. Leads by example every day in practice. Engaged. Unbelievable."

Drizzy stans are eating up that opening line. For those out of the loop, 'National Treasures' is a hit song from Drake's latest album release. One of the most popular figures in the world, he's built up a relationship with Gilgeous-Alexander over the years. Both recently watched the FIFA World Cup together. To muscian also made a surprise visit to OKC a handful of years ago to watch him play.

Canada has enjoyed its best success since Gilgeous-Alexander arrived in the program. It had a bronze finish in the 2023 FIBA World Cup and finished in fifth place in the 2024 Olympics. There have been waves of NBA talent over the years, but the two-time MVP is at the top of the billing.

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Gordie Herbert on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: '[He's] Canada's national treasure'

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