Sixth man in the complicated victory of the French team against Lebanon (85-79), Nicholas Batum was one of the best Blues with 12 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists but also 2 steals and 2 blocks. A full match in complicated conditions, and as a good captain, the Clippers winger raised his voice during a time-out while France was trailing by 10 points by Lebanon.
“It’s still a victory” sighs Nicolas Batum at the microphone of bein Sports. “We wanted to react. We were only 9, without “big men”, it was complicated after the disappointment… We too are very disappointed with what happened. But we’re still a great team, unfortunately for some, I want to say… We’re not dead, we’ll get up. We took a big hit on the head, but we showed pride because people still support us. Had to show something. We play for that (note: he shows France on his shirt). We fought, and mentally, it’s hard. We stayed united. We remained united. Lebanon were very well played, they were extraordinary, and it’s still a nice victory. »
” Even if there’s disillusionment, don’t let go”
While Vincent Collet, in the middle of the match, pointed out Elie Okobo’s lack of involvement, is it difficult to keep the group involved?
” Not necessarily “ replies Batum. “We have a big lunch together, between players. We tried to decompress, to laugh… Because there were three matches left, we have to win them. You have to give a good image. There are children watching us. Even if things go wrong, don’t give up. Even if there is disillusion, you must not let go. We have a big competition next year. You have to keep that mindset. We have to show people that, whatever happens, we are not going to let go of the jersey and we are going to continue to fight. That’s what we tried to do tonight. »
