Raptors’ Nick Nurse ‘very likely’ to coach Canada at 2019 FIBA World Cup

Watch as Nick Nurse speaks after the Toronto Raptors beat the Milwaukee Bucks to advance to their first NBA Finals appearance.

A source close to Nick Nurse has confirmed that it is ‘very likely’ that the Toronto Raptors head coach will take over as the Canadian men’s national team head coach at the FIBA World Cup.

Canada Basketball president and chief executive officer Glen Grunwald wouldn’t confirm the news. “All I can say is no comment,” he offered by text message.

Men’s national team general manager Rowan Barrett also said “no comment” while adding that the coaching search has gone “very well.”

Sources say the Raptors and Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment — one of Canada Basketball’s primary financial backers — have been supportive of the idea, with the view that what is good for Canada Basketball is good for MLSE and the Raptors, and growing the basketball footprint across the country.

Another development to look for is an increased integration between Drake’s OVO brand — another MLSE partner — and Canada Basketball.

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