In a highly anticipated quarterfinal matchup at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the French basketball team delivered an exhilarating performance to defeat a previously unbeaten Canadian side. The victory propels France into the semifinals, where they will face Germany. However, the game was marked by the unexpected limited participation of NBA star Rudy Gobert, who played just three minutes.
Gobert's Limited Minutes
Gobert, typically a dominant force in the paint, cited a finger injury as the primary reason for his reduced playing time. "I have confidence in my teammates, the coaches. The plan worked, given how we started the match," Gobert noted. "There were several reasons why I didn't play, between the matchups but also what can happen in training, with the injuries. It was a good decision in any case. I was on the operating table last night. To be able to play in an Olympic quarterfinal, it was incredible."
His comments highlight both his physical challenges and the strategic decisions made by French coach Vincent Collet. Coach Collet had opted to start Victor Wembanyama at center, with Guerschon Yabusele filling the power forward position. Collet elaborated on his choices, stating, "They play small ball. I wanted Wemby to start at five, that's why I put Yabusele at four. The other change was Isaia Cordinier for Evan Fournier because I wanted a defensive starting five."
Strategic Lineup Changes Prove Effective
The tactical shift paid off, as Yabusele and Cordinier combined for an impressive 42 points. Their contributions were instrumental in France's narrow victory over a formidable Canadian team. Meanwhile, the decision to limit Gobert's minutes was also influenced by Coach Collet's desire to protect his star player. "Not only. It's the main one. He's a good player. I know he has pain in his finger despite the surgeon saying he could play. He didn't know exactly, but finally, this morning, he said, 'I can play.' My idea was to protect him if I could do it. As it was working well with the other big men, I preferred to keep him on the bench. He will be ready for the next game," Collet explained.
Victory Paves the Way Forward
Despite the significant strategic adjustments and the absence of Gobert from the starting lineup, France showcased their depth and adaptability. Victor Wembanyama, replacing Gobert at center, managed to contribute seven points, altering the dynamics in the matchups and ultimately leading to a successful result for the French side.
The contest attracted commentary from other NBA players, with Draymond Green expressing his surprise at the situation. "To be taken out of the lineup on any other team in the Olympics as an NBA player not named Team USA is kind of crazy," Green remarked.
Preparing for Germany
As France advances to the semifinals, the focus now shifts to their upcoming clash with Germany. While Gobert is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for the semifinal, there remains uncertainty about whether he will regain his starting spot given the effective lineup adjustments made in the quarterfinal.
Coach Collet emphasized the team's collective effort and versatility as crucial elements of their game plan. "France's tactical versatility and depth were key factors in their victory over Canada," said Collet, acknowledging that the lineup changes were more than just a temporary fix.
With resilience and strategic ingenuity, France hopes to continue their pursuit of Olympic glory. Gobert's determination to bounce back for the semifinal game reinforces the team's collective spirit, aiming to build upon their recent success against Canada.