Vlatko Čančar Included in Slovenia's Squad for 2027 World Cup Qualifiers

The Slovenian national basketball federation (KZS) has unveiled the list of invited players for the upcoming 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers, featuring a mix of experienced and emerging talent.

Notably, Vlatko Čančar, a player who has battled significant injury problems in recent seasons and last played for the national team in 2024, has been included in the 17-player squad. The team, led by coach Aleksandar Sekulić, will face Estonia on July 3 and Sweden on July 6 in the first phase of qualification.

Slovenia has performed strongly in the current qualification phase, leading Group H with three wins and one loss. Their victories include two against the Czech Republic and one away against Sweden, with a close overtime loss to Estonia. This performance positions them well for advancement to the second round of qualifications, which begins in late August.

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We will also enter the last cycle of the first part of the qualifiers with a rejuvenated and mixed squad. This team has already shown the right attitude, exceptional character, and very good performances so far and deservedly leads the standings. I hope that the fans have recognized this and will give them additional momentum with their visit to Stožice.

The squad also includes other notable players such as Miha Cerkvenik, Saša Ciani, Gregor Hrovat, Alen Omić, and brothers Klemen and Bine Prepelič. Čančar, after leaving the Denver Nuggets, joined Milan in the EuroLeague but faced limited playing time and further injuries, leaving him without a club for the past eight months.

The team will commence preparations on June 17 and will play a friendly match against Italy on June 27 in Celje before the official qualifiers. Sports director Saša Dončić expressed confidence in the team, highlighting their strong attitude and character, and urged fans to support them in Stožice.

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We completely trust these guys and I believe they will show excellent basketball again. Both the players and the national team staff are aware of the responsibility and, at the same time, the great opportunity to first confirm our place in the second round and then prepare the best possible starting position for the continuation of the qualifiers.