By Stefan Djordjevic/ info@eurohoops.net
After the game against Serbia, France’s coach Vincent Collet announced the 12 players who will make the national team’s roster at the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
Theo Maledon and Elie Okobo didn’t make the cut and France will play in China with the following 12 players: Frank Ntilikina, Amath M’Baye, Nicolas Batum, Evan Fournier, Nando De Colo, Vincent Poirier, Andrew Albicy, Louis Labeyrie, Mathias Lessort (photo), Rudy Gobert, Axel Toupane, Paul Lacombe.
Coach Collet explained his decision: “Theo (Maledon) had issues with the shoulder and unfortunately could not fully defend his chances during the Shenyang tournament. I want to thank him and salute his irreproachable investment for the duration of the preparation. Before this last game against Serbia, I had in mind all the options and the different parameters to observe to make my choice. Elie (Okobo) answered when we called on him in preparation. I want to thank him for his involvement and his exemplary spirit throughout the preparation. However, despite his very good investment, he did not convince me to be the third guard. Nando De Colo will be able to bring his experience to support Frank (Ntilikina) and Andrew (Albicy) in this position.”