French team announces players for international matches

The French Basketball Federation revealed on Friday, October 23, the 14 players selected by coach Frédéric Fauthoux for the upcoming international matches. The team will first face Estonia in Tallinn on November 27, then host Sweden at the Palais des Sports in Dijon on November 30.

Key players included in selection

Among the selected players is Mathias Lessort, a center who has been performing well at the start of the season. He joins players such as Jaylen Hoard, Amine Noua, Lionel Gaudoux, and Mohamed Diarra. Nadir Hifi, a guard-forward from Paris Basketball, is also included, along with several regulars from previous international windows like Gérald Ayayi, Axel Bouteille, Adam Mokoka, and Benjamin Sene.

New faces added to the squad

The team also includes Zacharie Perrin and Hugo Yimga-Moukouri, who offer fresh options in the frontcourt. Frédéric Fauthoux has assembled a mix of experienced players and those with less international experience. The inclusion of several EuroLeague players, such as Lessort, Hifi, and Hoard, adds depth to the squad.

Coach emphasizes focus on competition

Frédéric Fauthoux stated that the team's goal is to win and maintain their current momentum. He noted that while securing qualification by Friday would be a bonus, the team must remain cautious against Estonia and Sweden, who are closely competing for qualification. He emphasized that no international match is easy.

Full list of selected players

The 14-player squad includes Gérald Ayayi, Hugo Benitez, Axel Bouteille, Mohamed Diarra, Lionel Gaudoux, Nadir Hifi, Jaylen Hoard, Mathéo Leray, Mathias Lessort, Adam Mokoka, Amine Noua, Zacharie Perrin, Benjamin Sene, and Hugo Yimga-Moukouri, each with their height and age listed.

Focus on World Cup qualification

The French team continues its campaign for the 2027 World Cup in Qatar, which will take place from August 27 to September 12. The upcoming matches against Estonia and Sweden are crucial steps in this qualification journey.