Toronto Raptors center Marc Gasol had encouraging words for Nick Nurse and the Canadian team and their bright future on Friday. The Spanish center spoke on his coach's talent and how he thought it would lead to success in the FIBA tournament.

“It's going to be a very exciting tournament for them as they are building a very competitive team and they can go far in the tournament. They have many talented players, a great mindset, and they want to show the world their talent. Coach Nick is very talented and he wants to help Canada basketball continue to improve. He has worked in the past with Great Britain (2012 Olympics) and they have shown improvement. Nick loves FIBA basketball. I am sure he is going to have a lot of success with Canada, and that the guys are going to love working with him.”

The Canadian team is one of the most exciting teams in the tournament. Even though they will be without Minnestoa Wolves talent Andrew Wiggins, they still boast plenty of talent. R.J. Barret, Jamal Murray, Shai Gilgeous Alexander, and Kelly Olynyk will all suit up for Canada when the tournament begins.

Nurse has already shown the NBA world what he can do with a roster full of talent. Now he gets a chance to prove yet again that he can win big as a head coach and bring yet another trophy to Canada.