In an unexpected turn of events, the French basketball team, known as the "Blues," triumphed over Canada with a score of 82-73 in the quarter-finals of the Olympic Games. This victory comes as a relief after a series of criticisms directed towards Vincent Collet's squad, especially following their earlier defeat to Germany (71-85). Key players like Mathias Lessort, Isaïa Cordinier, and Guerschon Yabusele showcased their skills, contributing significantly to the win. The match was intensely contested, and Evan Fournier's crucial shot in the final moments sealed the victory, igniting celebrations among the French fans at Arena Bercy.
The Blues had to overcome their fears in the last quarter as Canada began to close the gap, but Fournier's timely intervention proved decisive. The team will now shift their focus to the semi-finals, where they will face Germany again, a team they struggled against earlier in the tournament. The upcoming match promises to be a test of their resilience and ability to learn from past mistakes.
In a parallel achievement, the French 3x3 basketball team made history by defeating Serbia, the reigning world champions, with a score of 22-19. Timothé Vergiat emerged as the hero of the match, securing the victory and a spot in the semi-finals. This win marks a significant milestone for the team as they prepare to face Latvia, the current Olympic champions.
The excitement surrounding French basketball is palpable, especially after breaking attendance records at the Pierre-Mauroy stadium during the tournament. With a record crowd of 27,193 spectators, the atmosphere was electric, showcasing the growing popularity of basketball in France. Players like Marine Johannes expressed their gratitude for the support, emphasizing the positive impact of such events on the sport's evolution in the country.
- The French basketball team, despite facing challenges, has shown potential throughout the tournament. Their earlier victories against Brazil and Japan, although not without flaws, indicated a team capable of competing at high levels. However, the loss to Germany raised concerns about their consistency and execution under pressure. Experts have pointed out the need for the players to adhere to strategies and improve their teamwork to succeed in crucial matches. In terms of attendance, the Pierre-Mauroy stadium's record-setting crowd reflects a growing interest in basketball, particularly women's basketball, in Europe. The players are not only competing for medals but also for the future of the sport in France, as more fans become engaged and passionate about the game.
