Matt Bonner has been denied quick citizenship and won't be eligible to play for Team Canada at this summer's World Championships in Turkey.

Bonner, who was born in America, played for the Toronto Raptors for two seasons and owns a home in Canada. He was granted full resident status in 2009.

"Matt cannot play for Canada at the world championship until he acquires his citizenship," chief executive officer of Canada Basketball Wayne Parrish said.

"However, he cannot acquire his citizenship until he plays for Canada and thus demonstrates his extraordinary value."