Spain displays its performance, subsequently faces blockage, and eventually suffers a defeat at the hands of France in Paris
News Article: Spain and France Clash in Preparation for EuroBasket 2025
In a thrilling friendly match held at the Accor Arena in Bercy, France, the Spanish basketball team and France faced off in a tense encounter, with Spain emerging victorious by a narrow margin. The game was attended by 13,613 spectators, eager to witness the teams' preparations for EuroBasket 2025.
Spain's tactical approach against France focused heavily on dynamic ball screens, particularly pick and roll plays, aiming to create scoring opportunities. France responded with defensive coverages and communication, designed to contain Spain’s screens effectively. Tactical discipline on both sides emphasized adjustments and coordination to exploit or limit Spain’s offensive strengths.
France's Sylvain Francisco was a problem for the Spanish defense, scoring seven points in the second quarter. Willy Hernangomez, a key scorer for Spain in the paint, also impressed, earning two personal fouls on Mam Jaiteh. Spain maintained its lead in the first half due to free throws, with the maximum score at halftime being 28-44.
The game was marked by the possible injuries of Alberto Abalde and Mario Saint-Supéry, as well as the debut of Isaac Nogués. Nogués provided grit and drive to the Spanish team, trying to hold the score. France made a comeback after halftime, scoring a 10-2 run and reducing Spain’s lead to 38-46. Scariolo called a timeout to regroup his team.
After several attempts, France finally managed to take the lead for the first time since the start of the game, thanks to two free throws from Jaylen Hoard, making the score 69-67. Spain, however, recovered with three-pointers from Yusta and Jaime Pradilla. France sealed the victory with a penetration from lefty Élie Okobo and a three-pointer from Strazel, capping off a great comeback, 78-73.
Before the game, a tribute was paid to French national team retirees Nico Batum and Nando De Colo. At halftime, seven former players who had over 200 international caps with France were also honored: Hervé Dubuisson, Jacques Cachemire, Boris Diaw, Florent Pietrus, Eric Beugnot, Jean-Michel Sénégal, and Jacques Monclar.
The Spanish basketball team's focus on dynamic ball screens and defensive adjustments aligns with their historically strong focus on ball movement and screening to create space and mismatches in international play. However, no detailed information on Spain’s full offensive or defensive scheme against France was found beyond this focus on pick and roll and defensive adjustments.
The game was officiated by Yohan Rosso (FRA), Joseph Bissang (FRA) and Jeremy Foucault (FRA). Zaccharie Risacher and Vincent Poirier had late absences for France, and their potential absence for EuroBasket 2025 is uncertain due to knee problems.
This friendly match provided valuable insights into both teams' preparations for EuroBasket 2025, with Spain demonstrating their offensive prowess and France showcasing their resilience in the face of adversity. The stage is now set for an exciting tournament, as both teams continue to refine their strategies and prepare for the challenges ahead.
The Spanish basketball team's strategic use of pick and roll plays hints at their intention to employ similar tactics in the NBA, demonstrating the versatility of these plays in various sports. Despite France's commendable resilience, they may need to improve their defense to compete effectively in the NBA, where the emphasis on ball movement and screening is even more pronounced.
