Gobert's Limited Minutes and Tactical Decisions Propel France to Victory Over Canada
In a stunning display of tactical versatility and depth, France managed to defeat a previously unbeaten Canadian team to advance to the semifinals of the 2024 Paris Olympics. The game, held amid great anticipation, saw French NBA star Rudy Gobert surprisingly play only three minutes, citing a finger injury. France's coach Vincent Collet, however, emphasized that the decision was not only due to Gobert's injury but also strategic matchup preferences.
Gobert's limited playing time was immediately noticeable, especially given his stature in the NBA and usual prominence on the French national team. Coach Collet opted for a different starting lineup, deploying rising star Victor Wembanyama at center and Guerschon Yabusele at power forward. Isaia Cordinier also got the nod over Evan Fournier due to defensive considerations.
"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," explained Collet.
The changes paid off handsomely. Yabusele and Cordinier combined to score 42 points, helping France to maintain a competitive edge throughout the game. Although Wembanyama finished with only seven points, the collective contribution of the team was crucial in clinching the victory. France’s tactical adaptability proved instrumental in their success, underscoring the depth of the squad.
Gobert, who had been on the operating table just the night before to address his finger injury, acknowledged the effectiveness of the strategic decisions. "I have confidence in my teammates, the coaches. The plan worked, given how we started the match," said Gobert. He added, "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. I was on the operating table last night. To be able to play in an Olympic quarterfinal, it was incredible."
Collet also commented on Gobert's condition and the decision to limit his minutes in the game. "Not only. It's the main one. 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," Collet emphasized.
France's victory over Canada sets the stage for a high-stakes semifinal matchup with Germany. The French team will enter the game with a new sense of resilience and strategic confidence. Despite Gobert's limited presence on the court, the team's collective effort and Collet’s tactical acumen shone brightly, charting a path to Olympic glory.
As France prepares to face Germany, the question remains whether Gobert will regain his starting position. Regardless, his commitment to making a full comeback is unwavering. "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," noted NBA star Draymond Green, emphasizing the unusual nature of the situation.
France aims to continue leveraging their tactical versatility and team depth as they pursue further success in the Olympics. With Gobert expected to be ready for the semifinal game, the team's strategic adaptability will once again be put to the test. Coach Collet’s lineup adjustments against Canada showcased the strength and flexibility of the French squad, elements that they will undoubtedly rely on as the competition intensifies.
The Olympic journey for the French team is far from over. Their capacity to make sound strategic adjustments and capitalize on their depth could very well be the keys to achieving Olympic glory. With Gobert's anticipated return and the momentum from their victory over Canada, France looks poised to make a significant impact in the semifinals and beyond.