In a stunning turn of events at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the French national basketball team, led by coach Vincent Collet, made decisive lineup adjustments that contributed to their quarterfinal victory over a previously unbeaten Canadian team. The alterations to the lineup, which saw NBA star Rudy Gobert play only three minutes, were motivated by a combination of strategic decisions and an unfortunate injury to Gobert.
Gobert, who sustained a finger injury during practice that required surgery prior to the game, was a surprising omission from the starting lineup. French coach Vincent Collet explained the rationale behind the decision: "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 Adjustments
In Gobert's place, rising star Victor Wembanyama started at center, and Guerschon Yabusele filled the power forward position. Isaia Cordinier was brought in to enhance the team's defensive capabilities, replacing Evan Fournier. The shifts paid off spectacularly, as Yabusele and Cordinier combined for 42 points, showcasing France's depth and tactical versatility.
Despite the lineup changes, victory was anything but assured for France. Gobert's NBA stature normally grants him a prominent role on the team, making his limited minutes and eventual absence from the game significant. However, Gobert expressed his understanding and support for the coach's decision, stating, "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."
Gobert's Resilience and Team Spirit
Displaying remarkable resolve, Gobert appreciated the opportunity to contribute, even minimally, to the crucial Olympic quarterfinal: "I was on the operating table last night. To be able to play in an Olympic quarterfinal, it was incredible," he remarked. His ability to participate, despite the injury, is a testament to his commitment and dedication to the team.
Collet echoed similar sentiments about Gobert's situation, emphasizing the importance of protecting the player's long-term health. "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."
Looking Forward to the Semifinals
Having overcome Canada, the French team is now preparing for a challenging semifinal matchup with Germany. Although Gobert is expected to be ready for the game, there is still uncertainty about whether he will regain his starting position. Coach Collet’s enthusiastic endorsement of the lineup used against Canada suggests that he values the effectiveness of tactical adjustments.
Veteran NBA player Draymond Green commented on the surprising benching of Gobert, acknowledging the unusual nature of such a decision: "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." This speaks volumes about the strategic boldness and adaptability displayed by the French coaching staff.
France's performance against Canada illustrated not only the team’s depth but also its ability to adapt under pressure. With key players like Wembanyama and Yabusele stepping up, France demonstrated that it can contend with the best, even amid adversity.
As they move forward, the French team remains focused on their ultimate goal—pursuing Olympic glory with resilience and strategic ingenuity. Gobert, intending to make a full comeback for the semifinal game, embodies this spirit of determination and collective effort, essential for France's continued success in the tournament.