It’s the turn of the French basketball team to enter the fray. Marine Johannès and her teammates begin their Olympic tournament against Canada, in a group match, on Monday, July 29 (at 5:15 p.m., live on France Télévisions and france.tv), at the Pierre Mauroy stadium in Lille. A test-style start for the bronze medalists at the Tokyo Olympics.
Gabby Williams and Marine Johannès as leaders. Third in Japan, the French women are expected at home. Author of an excellent Olympic preparation with five wins in as many matches, including a victory over China in particular, the French team can rely on two leaders, Marine Johannès and Gabby Williams. They will be surrounded by a few young players like Leïla Lacan (20 years old) and Dominique Malonga (18 years old). Sandrine Gruda, record holder of points under the blue jersey was not selected.
Canada, a formidable adversary. Fourth in the last world championships, in 2022, the Canadians are formidable opponents. The red and white had also dominated the Blues in the group match of the World Cup, 59-45. In Paris, they will be led by winger Natalie Achonwa, who will participate in her fourth Olympic Games.
A tough group B. Third in the last world championships (2022), the Australians will also be ones to watch in this tough group. As a reminder, the 12 nations involved in the tournament are divided into three groups of four. The top two from each group and the two best third-placed teams will advance to the quarter-finals.