Gobert's Limited Role in France's Upset Victory Over Canada
Rudy Gobert, often a central figure in the French national team's successes, played a surprisingly limited role in France's quarterfinal game against Canada at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The standout NBA center logged just three minutes of playtime, contributing nothing remarkable on the box score but stirring significant intrigue off the court.
Gobert cited a finger injury sustained during practice as the main reason for his limited participation. The injury was severe enough to require surgery before the game, which undoubtedly influenced his availability and effectiveness. "I have confidence in my teammates, the coaches. The plan worked, given how we started the match," Gobert stated. "There were several reasons why I didn't play, between the matchups but also what happened 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."
France's head coach, Vincent Collet, also addressed Gobert's limited minutes from a tactical standpoint. Collet decided to start Victor Wembanyama at center and Guerschon Yabusele at power forward, a strategic shift aimed at countering Canada's playing style. "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," Collet explained.
Despite Gobert's limited presence, France managed to secure a significant victory over an unbeaten Canadian team, advancing to the semifinals. This outcome was not merely a stroke of luck but a testament to France's tactical flexibility and depth. Yabusele and Cordinier, who started instead of more established players, combined for an impressive 42 points. Victor Wembanyama contributed seven points in his starting role.
"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 elaborated on his cautious approach with Gobert.
The strategic adjustments paid off as France outmaneuvered their Canadian opponents, demonstrating a level of resilience and strategic adaptation that has become their hallmark in international competitions. Gobert's absence from the starting lineup was notable for a player of his NBA stature, making France's triumph even more remarkable. "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," remarked Draymond Green, highlighting the unusual nature of Gobert's role in the game.
Looking ahead to their semifinal match against Germany, France aims to continue leveraging their tactical versatility. Gobert is expected to be ready for the game, although it remains uncertain whether he will regain his starting position. Regardless of his role, Gobert's commitment to make a full comeback signals his readiness to contribute to France's pursuit of Olympic glory.
Coach Collet emphasized the effectiveness of the lineup alterations and the critical roles played by Wembanyama, Yabusele, and Cordinier. "The plan worked, given how we started the match," Collet noted, underlining the importance of strategic planning and execution in high-stakes games.
France's victory over Canada has set the stage for an intriguing semifinal clash with Germany. As the team prepares, the blend of seasoned tacticians and dynamic young talents like Wembanyama will be essential in navigating the challenges ahead. Gobert's anticipated return, whether in a starting role or otherwise, adds another layer of depth to a team already rich in talent and determination.
The journey to Olympic success is rarely straightforward, and France's path is no exception. With every game, they continue to showcase the resilience, strategic adaptability, and team cohesion that are the hallmarks of champions.