WATCH: 21YO Spaniard Smokes NBA All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Ahead of the FIBA World Cup, Days After OKC Thunder Release

NBA teammates playing against each other in the 2023 FIBA World Cup and rivals playing on the same team is a fascinating experience. Both the fans and players had a feel for the tournament during the warm-up games. While they were technically friendly games, the stars were still competing. Interestingly, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was caught napping by one of his former teammates.

The Oklahoma City Thunder has one of the best young cores in the NBA with multiple prospects. Notably, Gilgeous-Alexander plays a crucial role for the Thunder as he develops into one of the best young players in the league. He is an important piece for Canada as well in their aspirations for the World Cup.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander lost the ball to a?former teammate

As the #2 draft pick Chet Holmgren was sidelined for the whole season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander took the lead averaging over 30 points per game. His development was recognized last year as he earned his first-ever All-Star selection. With Holmgren expected to make his debut this season, the fans are excited.

However, the team had to make some hard decisions during the offseason. Notably, the Thunder recently released power forward Usman Garuba. It could not have come at a bad time as he was away with the Spain national team preparing for the FIBA World Cup. After this, Garuba had a warning for the whole league.

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He took to X and wrote, “I?ll prove everyone wrong. Mark my words”. And he wasted no time.

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Canada faced Spain in a warm-up game a few days back. In one instance, Garuba faced his former Thunder teammate Gilgeous-Alexander. As Canada had a slender 52-53 lead in the third quarter, Garuba picked the point guard’s pocket and raced to the other end. He then missed the lay-up with an off-balance euro step. But gathered his own miss. While the miss wasn’t impressive, the athleticism and the intensity of the forward were there to be seen. However, Canada came out with a hard-fought 80-85 win in the close game.

Josh Giddey’s impressive start to the World Cup

Another young Oklahoma City Thunder star looking to make an impact for his country is Josh Giddey. He is now the starting point guard for the Australian national team. He made his debut for The Boomers in 2021 and already has some impressive games to his name.

In his first game in the World Cup, Giddey faced fellow NBA star Lauri Markkanen for Finland. Notably, Australia came away with an impressive 98-72 win.

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Gidey had a great all-around game with 14 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists, according to FIBA, as he started his campaign with flying colors.