12 Stars Selected for February Showdowns

Just two more steps to climb, and the Euro 2025 dream is within reach! As they gear up for qualifying matches 3 and 4, head coach Freddy Fauthoux is shaking things up by bringing in standout EuroLeague players to close out the campaign.

It’s game time!

After two hard-fought victories against Cyprus in November, the stakes are higher now. The squad is ready to tackle heavyweights Croatia and Bosnia on February 21 and 24, respectively.

A qualification up for grabs! 💪

The 12 French players called up by Frédéric Fauthoux for the final two qualifiers at the @EuroBasket are all in! 💥

Read the official announcement 👉 https://t.co/o6r4qm739z #TeamFranceBasket | #PassionatelyBlue | #EuroBasket pic.twitter.com/TmYAOw8XRK

— Équipes de France de Basket (@FRABasketball) January 17, 2025

Evan Fournier hinted at his return, and he’s back after a personal record in EuroLeague—good news for the French lineup! Joining him are Isaïa Cordinier, Jaylen Hoard, Élie Okobo, Théo Maledon, Vincent Poirier, and Matthew Strazel. All eyes will also be on Neal Sako as he makes his debut with Les Bleus, while Nolan Traoré, Brice Dessert, and Mohamed Diawara provide vital training support.

In their last encounters, France took down Croatia by 12 and Bosnia by 10—a year ago. This new challenge is unlike anything they faced against Cyprus. Coach Fauthoux has assembled a much stronger squad compared to last year’s experimental lineup. Although qualification seems almost guaranteed for Les Bleus, these two matches will be a serious test. With seven months to prepare, Fauthoux is set to mold a team ready to embrace a new era.