Matt Bonner is trying to become a Canadian citizen before this month's World Championships begin.

Bonner wants to play for Team Canada, but still has a major hurdle to clear.

"We've tried all that we could so far, we just hope that people realize that there's not too much time left, and that he would be unbelievable piece to add to this team," said Maurizio Gherardini, managing director of Canada Basketball.

"Matt is committed. Someone else, at this stage, probably would've given up."

The World Championships will begin Aug. 28 in Turkey.

Bonner's application was already rejected on what he and Canada Basketball felt were dubious grounds, according to a source.

A native of New Hampshire, Bonner is married to a Canadian and lives in Toronto from his days with the Raptors. He also has Canadian heritage on both sides of his family.