Four French Stars Shine at the All-Star Weekend

This season, the French basketball contingent has hit a new high, with 14 players making waves, just like last year but with even more impact. A solid group of our fellow countrymen is making noise in the NBA, catching the eyes of fans and analysts alike. Each week will bring you an exciting recap, along with our day-to-day coverage on TrashTalk’s social media. This week? The All-Star Weekend was a blast, with four French players stealing the spotlight!

# Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)

Wemby had a monstrous game against the Wizards, faced a tougher challenge in Boston, and took on All-Star Weekend with flair, showing off his skills on both Saturday and Sunday. There’s no denying it now—Victor is a bona fide star.

Victor Wembanyama’s stats this season in the NBA: 24.3 points on 47.6% shooting, including 35.2% from three, 84% from the free-throw line, 11 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.1 steals, and 3.8 blocks in 33.2 minutes.

Chris Paul and Victor Wembanyama disqualified from the Skills Challenge after trying to game the system by hurling balls like crazy to speed things up 💀💀pic.twitter.com/lIOUDOBEqZ

— TrashTalk (@TrashTalk_fr) February 16, 2025

VICTOR WEMBANYAMA IS IN THE HOUSE!

First-time All-Star for our French alien, SHOW THEM WHAT YOU’VE GOT! 👽🇫🇷pic.twitter.com/cx0tqPE1xA

— TrashTalk (@TrashTalk_fr) February 17, 2025

Wemby is here to WORK.pic.twitter.com/ZQR3qG04zQ

— TrashTalk (@TrashTalk_fr) February 17, 2025

Nikola Jokic sending Wemby sky-high 💥pic.twitter.com/8hHX5XN6IR

— TrashTalk (@TrashTalk_fr) February 17, 2025

Victor Wembanyama for the block on KD and then draining it from downtown! 🔥pic.twitter.com/89abyNo12E

— TrashTalk (@TrashTalk_fr) February 17, 2025

# Rudy Gobert (Minnesota Timberwolves)

Rudy wasn’t invited to the All-Star Weekend, but he definitely could have wowed the crowd in the Skills Challenge. He’s a no-nonsense player and is now gearing up for a strong push towards the playoffs. The stakes are high for the Stifle Tower!

• Wolves @ Cavs: 12 points on 4/6 shooting and 4/5 from the line, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2 blocks in 27 minutes.
• Wolves vs Bucks: 20 points on 10/14 shooting, 14 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block in 38 minutes.
• Wolves vs Thunder: DNP.

Rudy Gobert’s stats this season in the NBA: 11 points on 65.3% shooting and 68% from the line, 10.4 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.7 steals, and 1.5 blocks in 33.3 minutes.

# Bilal Coulibaly (Washington Wizards)

Bilal got his groove on, participating in the Rising Stars for the second year running. It might not go down as one of his top memories, but it’s a solid step in establishing himself in the NBA’s elite circle. Keep soaring, Bilal!

• Wizards vs Spurs: 10 points on 4/9 shooting, including 2/5 from three, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal in 36 minutes.
• Wizards vs Pacers: 3 points on 1/8 shooting, including 1/4 from three, 0/2 from the line, 5 rebounds, and 8 assists in 36 minutes.

Bilal Coulibaly’s stats this season in the NBA: 12.4 points on 41.7% shooting, 28.2% from three, 75.2% from the line, 5.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.7 blocks in 33.4 minutes.

BILAL JUMPING OVER WEMBY! 😱

And the commentator screams “that’s savage” right after 😭😭😭 https://t.co/n8IkUNtXKn

— TrashTalk (@TrashTalk_fr) February 11, 2025

BILAAAAAAALLLL 💥🤯❤️ pic.twitter.com/VTQOejhYYg

— TrashTalk (@TrashTalk_fr) February 15, 2025

# Alexandre Sarr (Washington Wizards)

The big man Alex returned to action after a two-week absence and made his first All-Star Weekend appearance. He enjoyed the Rising Stars event on Friday and teamed up with his buddy Zaccharie in the Skills Challenge. Back in Washington, he’s sure to miss the excitement, but at least he’ll still get minutes on the court.

• Wizards vs Spurs: DNP.
• Wizards vs Pacers: 9 points on 3/13 shooting, including 2/6 from three, 1/2 from the line, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks in 32 minutes.

Alex Sarr’s stats this season in the NBA: 11.4 points on 39.3% shooting, 30.7% from three, 64% from the line, 6.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 0.6 steals, and 1.6 blocks in 26.9 minutes.

# Zaccharie Risacher (Atlanta Hawks)

Having faced a significant absence, Zaccharie has come back even stronger. With more minutes and chances to showcase his skills post-trade deadline, February is gearing up to be a breakout month for him. Double participation in the All-Star Weekend capped off a stellar first half of the season, and who knows? He might just make his playoff debut come April!

• Hawks @ Magic: 11 points on 3/6 shooting, including 1/2 from three, 4/4 from the line, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal in 18 minutes.
• Hawks @ Knicks: 16 points on 6/11 shooting, including 2/4 from three, 2/2 from the line, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, and 1 block in 30 minutes.

Zaccharie Risacher’s stats this season in the NBA: 11.4 points on 43.3% shooting, including 31.7% from three, 71.2% from the line, 3.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.5 blocks in 23.8 minutes.

Hey there, Zaccharie Risacher!! 🥰🇫🇷

A little chat before tonight’s Skills Challenge, members of the Hawks sticking together however they can hehehe 🫶

Let’s go, Zacch!! pic.twitter.com/LAk0wZubKU

— TrashTalk (@TrashTalk_fr) February 15, 2025

# Guerschon Yabusele (Philadelphia Sixers)

Despite interest from multiple franchises, Guerschon has stuck around in Philadelphia, consistently proving his worth regardless of his role in the lineup. His hard work and resilience are paying off, and it’s clear he’s enjoying every minute on the court.

• Sixers @ Bucks: 18 points on 7/10 shooting, including 3/6 from three, 1/1 from the line, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal in 25 minutes.
• Sixers vs Raptors: 8 points on 2/9 shooting, including 2/6 from three, 2/2 from the line, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal in 22 minutes.
• Sixers @ Nets: 5 points on 2/5 shooting, including 1/3 from three, 2 rebounds, and 1 assist in 21 minutes.

Guerschon Yabusele’s stats this season in the NBA: 11.1 points on 51.6% shooting, including 40.1% from three, 74.2% from the line, 5.5 rebounds, 2 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.4 blocks in 26.6 minutes.

# Nicolas Batum (Los Angeles Clippers)

Nico may not be putting up the biggest numbers of his career, but we all know the real impact of his experience will shine through in the playoffs. He’s got that old-school savvy that every team needs.

• Clippers vs Grizzlies: 3 points on 1/4 from three, 3 rebounds, and 1 steal in 13 minutes.
• Clippers @ Jazz: 6 points on 2/5 shooting, including 2/4 from three, 4 rebounds, and 1 block in 30 minutes.

Nicolas Batum’s stats this season in the NBA: 3.3 points on 38.4% shooting, including 37.6% from three, 78.6% from the line, 2.9 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks in 17.4 minutes.

# Moussa Diabaté (Charlotte Hornets)

Moussa broke his career-high with 21 points against Brooklyn this week. On a short-term contract with Charlotte, he’s proving to be the biggest surprise among the Frenchies in the NBA this season. His hustle is undeniable, and his future looks bright.

Moussa Diabaté’s stats this season in the NBA: 5.1 points on 61.6% shooting and 55.2% from the line, 7 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.7 blocks in 18.9 minutes.

Moussa Diabaté’s stats this season in the G League: 16.7 points on 67.9% shooting and 66.7% from the line, 14.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1 block in 35.3 minutes.

MOUSSAAAAA !!!

Incredible! Huge work rewarded in Charlotte with a guaranteed contract, this is truly splendid!! Hard work pays off!!! https://t.co/Y4i4CR4jCF

— TrashTalk (@TrashTalk_fr) February 9, 2025

# Tidjane Salaün (Charlotte Hornets)

The G League break did wonders for Tidjane, and we’re expecting a pressure-free end to the season, showcasing why the Hornets had faith in drafting him with the 6th pick last June.

• Hornets @ Pistons: 8 points on 1/12 shooting, including 0/6 from three, 6/6 from the line, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists in 31 minutes.
• Hornets @ Nets: 16 points on 4/10 shooting, including 2/5 from three, 5 rebounds, 2 steals, and 1 block in 27 minutes.
• Hornets @ Magic: 3 points on 1/5 shooting, including 1/2 from three, 3 rebounds, and 1 assist in 20 minutes.

Tidjane Salaün’s stats this season in the NBA: 5.2 points on 31.6% shooting, including 28.6% from three, 72% from the line, 4.1 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.2 blocks in 19.1 minutes.

Tidjane Salaün’s stats this season in the G League: 13.8 points on 39.3% shooting, including 25.9% from three, 42.9% from the line, 7.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.3 steals in 33.4 minutes.

# Ousmane Dieng (Oklahoma City Thunder)

It’s been a tough road for Ousmane, who was kept by the Thunder at the trade deadline but is still struggling for playing time under coach Mark Daigneault. He’ll need to put in the effort to make a name for himself on this stacked roster.

• Thunder vs Pelicans: DNP.
• Thunder vs Heat: DNP.
• Thunder @ Wolves: DNP.

Ousmane Dieng’s stats this season in the NBA: 3.9 points on 40.4% shooting, including 28.8% from three, 68.8% from the line, 2.3 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.5 steals, and 0.2 blocks in 11.4 minutes.

Ousmane Dieng’s stats this season in the G League: 20.4 points on 46.2% shooting, including 37.5% from three, 80% from the line, 5.7 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 0.3 steals, and 1.4 blocks in 33 minutes.

# Rayan Rupert (Portland Trail Blazers)

The Blazers are cruising full speed ahead, but it isn’t necessarily thanks to Rayan. That’s never a good sign. Still, Rayan is hanging in there, and perseverance usually pays off.

• Blazers @ Nuggets: 0 points on 0/1 from three and 3 rebounds in 11 minutes.
• Blazers @ Nuggets: 0 points in 5 minutes.

Rayan Rupert’s stats this season in the NBA: 2.4 points on 40.5% shooting, including 27.8% from three, 72.2% from the line, 1.2 rebounds, 0.4 assists, 0.2 steals, and 0.1 blocks in 7.9 minutes.

Rayan Rupert’s stats this season in the G League: 17.2 points on 48.3% shooting, including 15.8% from three, 69.2% from the line, 5.7 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 0.5 steals, and 1 block in 35.2 minutes.

# Pacôme Dadiet (New York Knicks)

He’s frequently seen on the Knicks’ bench, celebrating the big threes from Jalen Brunson or the fighting spirit of Josh Hart. We can’t wait to see him hit the court again sometime soon!

• Knicks @ Pacers: DNP.
• Knicks vs Hawks: DNP.

Pacôme Dadiet’s stats this season in the NBA: 1.5 points on 30% shooting, including 35.7% from three, 100% from the line, 1 rebound, 0.4 assists, 0.1 steals, and 0.2 blocks in 6.4 minutes.

Pacôme Dadiet’s stats this season in the G League: 14 points on 40.7% shooting, including 27.6% from three, 81.8% from the line, 6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.8 blocks in 36.8 minutes.

# Sidy Cissoko (traded to Sacramento Kings, then to Washington Wizards, then… cut by the Wizards, and finally signed by the Blazers)

After a whirlwind week of trades, Sidy has finally settled down and delivered a fantastic debut with the Blazers’ G League team. He has a real opportunity to prove himself after a challenging first half of the season with the Spurs.

• Blazers @ Nuggets: DNP.
• Blazers @ Nuggets: DNP.

Sidy Cissoko’s stats this season in the NBA: 1.3 points on 50% shooting, including 42.9% from three, 16.7% from the line, 0.6 rebounds, 0.4 assists, and 0.1 steals in 3.2 minutes.

Sidy Cissoko’s stats this season in the G League: 18 points on 53.8% shooting, including 39.5% from three, 62.5% from the line, 3.7 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.6 blocks in 28.2 minutes.

# Armel Traoré (cut by the Lakers)

Still waiting for a new challenge in the NBA.

Armel Traoré’s stats this season in the NBA: 1.6 points on 31.6% shooting, including 0% from three, 28.6% from the line, 1.7 rebounds, 0.1 assists, 0.4 steals, and 0.2 blocks in 7.4 minutes.

Armel Traoré’s stats this season in the G League: 13.3 points on 51.3% shooting, including 34.4% from three, 56.3% from the line, 8.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.3 blocks, and 0.4 steals in 25.3 minutes.

Killian Hayes (Long Island Nets)

Kiki made his return after a ten-day break and didn’t skip a beat. He’s got his phone on full blast, ready for action!

• Long Island Nets vs Windy City Bulls: 11 points on 5/10 shooting, including 1/3 from three, 4 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 steals in 34 minutes.
• Long Island Nets @ Maine Celtics: 30 points on 13/23 shooting, including 3/6 from three, 1/1 from the line, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals in 36 minutes.

Killian Hayes’ stats this season in the G League: 21 points on 49.5% shooting, including 40.3% from three, 77.3% from the line, 5.5 rebounds, 8.3 assists, 2.8 steals, and 0.5 blocks in 35.6 minutes.