By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
BEIJING – The French national team wanted to go all the way – especially after beating the USA – and that’s why the end of the tournament and winning the bronze medal leaves a bittersweet taste.
As French captain, Nicolas Batum, admitted after the game: “We have a double feeling. We are happy because we knew how to react. We wanted to play another final. But it’s good for French basketball, for all the players, and also for those who played during the qualifiers. It’s good to win a second medal in a World Cup. And I hope that what has been presented to the French fans has pleased them”.
On his performance in defense, which was the key for the change of the game momentum, Batum added: “It was time for me to take the game in my hands, both on defense and offense. Nando (De Colo) was also extraordinary, Vincent (Poirier) made a nice comeback and Evan (Fournier) did not hesitate. It’s a very nice reaction from the whole team”.
Photo credit: FIBA.Basketball