By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Sylvain Francisco has been named among the 12 players selected to represent France at EuroBasket 2025.
The Zalgiris Kaunas guard approaches this opportunity with excitement and determination, sharing with BeBasket what it means to be part of the final squad and represent his country.
“I’m feeling good, very happy, even relieved. But I’m keeping my feet on the ground because there’s still a long way to go and a lot to accomplish,” Francisco said. “It’s really nice to be among the 12 and to continue—or rather, truly start—the journey with these guys.”
At 27, Francisco is one of the more experienced members of the squad, particularly with Vincent Poirier out. Yet he remains humble about his role, emphasizing teamwork over individual status.
“I don’t really notice because we all get along well as a team. We joke around. Sometimes I feel like I’m not 27,” he laughed. “But it feels good to be here, to be one of the ‘older guys,’ to give guidance to the younger players while bringing experience.”
Nadir Hifi was the last player to miss the cut for the EuroBasket squad.
“Naturally, it hurts. Nobody would like to be in his position. Everyone would have been disappointed if it had been us. There wasn’t a “right” or “wrong” choice—everyone was performing. Knowing Nadir, I know this will motivate him. He’s going to have a big season ahead in Paris. This should push him; he’s been through so much that it shouldn’t bring him down.”
Francisco is ready to bring the leadership he honed at Zalgiris to the French team.
“Absolutely! I had it at Zalgiris, so why not bring it here? After Germany, I really dominated a EuroLeague team and had the keys to the game. That helped me progress with Coach Trinchieri and evaluate myself honestly. Energy on offense, defense, creating for myself and my teammates—I know I’m someone who can make a big impact and change a lot.”
Despite his readiness to lead, he stresses that ego has no place on the court.
“Many of us want to be leaders, but there’s no ego. It comes naturally; if one person or another takes the lead, it doesn’t change anything: we’ll all support each other and move forward.”