Gobert's Limited Play Raises Questions, but France Advances
In a surprising twist during the 2024 Paris Olympics, Rudy Gobert played only three minutes in the quarterfinal game against Canada, igniting discussions among fans and analysts alike. Gobert cited a finger injury as the primary reason for his limited playing time, though French coach Vincent Collet also pointed to strategic matchup decisions.
Gobert's absence from the starting lineup was particularly notable given his NBA stature and usual prominence on the French national team. Instead, Vincent Collet opted for Victor Wembanyama at center and Guerschon Yabusele at power forward, emphasizing a different tactical approach. Isaia Cordinier also started in place of Evan Fournier for defensive reasons. Notably, Yabusele and Cordinier combined for an impressive 42 points during the game.
"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 regarding his lineup decisions. This strategic shift paid off, as France managed to defeat the previously unbeaten Canadian team to advance to the semifinals.
Gobert, who sustained the finger injury in practice requiring surgery, was nonetheless excited to contribute, albeit minimally. "I have confidence in my teammates, the coaches. The plan worked, given how we started the match. 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," Gobert shared.
Despite the minimal on-court contribution from Gobert, French coach Collet emphasized the effectiveness of the adjustments made during the game. France's tactical versatility and depth were key factors in their victory. "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," elaborated Collet.
Victor Wembanyama, who started in Gobert's usual spot, finished the game with seven points. While this might seem modest, it underscored the importance of team dynamics and strategic adjustments rather than individual heroics. The cohesion and adaptability demonstrated by Les Bleus were significant contributors to their success.
As France now prepares for a semifinal matchup with Germany, questions remain about whether Gobert will regain his starting position. However, the French team, buoyed by their recent performance, appears well-prepared to adapt and make necessary tactical decisions for the upcoming challenge. Gobert, meanwhile, is expected to be ready and fully intends to make a comeback for the semifinal game.
The unexpected decision to sideline a player of Gobert's caliber drew reactions from across the basketball world. Draymond Green, another NBA star, commented, "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." Such sentiments highlight the rarity and boldness of Collet's decision, further emphasizing the unique circumstances surrounding the French lineup changes.
France's victory over Canada exemplified resilience and strategic adaptation, core principles guiding their pursuit of Olympic glory. With a squad capable of adjusting to injuries and exploiting tactical matchups, France's prospects in the semifinal look promising. As the team gears up to face Germany, all eyes will be on Collet's next strategic moves and whether Gobert will resume his role as a key player.