The level of competition for Team Canada's Senior Men's basketball team is higher than it has ever been in the past.

Most of the training camp attendees are young players who lack international basketball experience, but have made names for themselves in the NBA or overseas.

Tristan Thompson was asked whether there’s any pressure on the team.

“No, not really," said Thompson. "We’re going to go out there and compete. Everyone thinks we’re young and inexperienced. We’re just going to put all our cards out and see what happens.”

Thompson hopes to bring leadership despite still being just 22 years old.

“Coming here with my NBA background and leadership, looking to rally all the troops together. This is really the first opportunity really where Canada’s had a team where people actually think we can win.

“I’m just coming here with the mindset of a leader and we’re going to go out there and win.”

Canada plays two games against Jamaica this Thursday and Saturday at the Jack Donohue Classic before heading over to Venezuela for the Americas Tournament, where the four semifinalists will qualify for the FIBA World Championships in Spain next year.