Player suffers stroke before training

Vincent Vent, a player for the Rouen Métropole Basket team, suffered a stroke just before a training session on Monday. The incident occurred at the start of the week, prompting concern within the team.

Immediate medical response

Thanks to the quick action of physiotherapist Hugo Marie and the team staff, Vent was promptly hospitalized. He was able to return home after two days in the hospital and currently shows no apparent after-effects, though his availability remains uncertain pending further medical tests.

Team signs temporary medical player

In response to Vent’s absence, the Rouen Métropole Basket team signed Thomas Hieu-Courtois as a temporary medical player. Hieu-Courtois is entering his 10th season in professional basketball and has spent most of his career in the second division.

Hieu-Courtois' career and experience

Hieu-Courtois has played for teams such as Blois, Lille, Aix-Maurienne, and Saint-Chamond. He previously performed a temporary medical role with Saint-Chamond and has experience in Betclic Élite with Strasbourg and Blois.

Coach highlights player's skills

Rouen’s coach, Jean-Denys Choulet, praised Hieu-Courtois for his ability to shoot three-pointers and his basketball IQ. He noted that Hieu-Courtois’s skills fit the team’s needs, particularly in modern basketball strategies.

Hieu-Courtois' shooting ability

Over the past five seasons, Hieu-Courtois has made more than 40% of his three-point shots. Choulet emphasized how valuable this skill is for a player in the 4 position, which is crucial for modern basketball tactics.

Team’s focus on new player’s mindset

Choulet highlighted Hieu-Courtois’s determination to join the team and contribute to the project. His quick adaptation is seen as vital for the Rouen team, which is currently ranked 17th in the league.

New player unavailable for next match

Hieu-Courtois will not be available for the upcoming match against Nantes on Friday, October 16. However, his presence is expected to help the team maintain the momentum from their first win of the season against Blois.