Phenomenon that makes the NBA salivate, Victor Wembanyama will defend the colors of theFrench team during the next international events, to form an XXL racket with Rudy Gobert (or even Joel Embiid).
Inevitably, such a perspective can only enchant Evan Fournierone of the executives of the tricolor group, who was also convinced by the great debut of “Wemby” in selection.
” I wasn’t really surprised [de ses prestations], because I knew he was ready for this kind of matches. I’m happy that he was able to express his full potential, that he felt so comfortable with the guys and with our style of play. », reacted the back of the Knickswith FIBA.
Author of 20 points and 9 rebounds in 23 minutes against Lithuania (victory, +25), then 19 points in 24 minutes against Bosnia (victory, +36), Victor Wembanyama did not seem impressed by his first steps ” among the grown-ups”. Proof of this mental strength already well developed in him, despite his young age.
” He is not afraid and he assumes all the attention he attracts very well, that’s for sure “, observed Evan Fournier. ” He will continue to progress and it is very positive to see that he can already help us, that we can count on him for the next few years. He is an extremely special player, he learns quickly, which is a great asset. »
Already called to be the boss of the Blues?
At only 18 years old, Victor Wembanyama directly established himself as the boss of the Blues during these two games where victory was essential, in order to qualify for the 2023 World Cup.
Attractive collectively, with a rejuvenated group for the occasion, Vincent Collet’s men left a good impression on Evan Fournier, forced to observe this new generation from the United States.
” They played very well and I found it all the more interesting as there were many new players in the squad. “added the Knick. “They all did their job well, like Damien Inglis, Sylvain Francisco and of course Victor Wembanyama, who knew how to manage the pressure around his first matches in the national team. France have shown that they have a large pool of basketball players who can compete at the highest level. I really focused on the performances of our players, on their way of playing our systems. It’s a great sign for the future and I want to congratulate them for what they have done. »
A year and a half before the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Victor Wembanyama has already expressed his wish to compete in the 2023 World Cup in Asia (August 25 – September 10), in order to forge first links with the Rudy Gobert, Nicolas Batum, Nando De Colo and other Guerschon Yabusele.
As for Evan Fournier, the first French offensive option for three years, he wanted to display his ambitions loud and clear, both individually and collectively.
” We are ambitious and we will want to win. You can count on my presence. »
