PARIS (France) - France will be going into the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup 2026 as one of the leading contenders for a medal. One of the big reasons for that is Nathan Soliman, who was part of France's disappointing team two summers ago.
But the star prospect intends to leave Istanbul with hardware hanging around his next thanks to his fellow ace talent Aaron Towo-Nansi and former legend Tony Parker patrolling the sidelines.
Soliman was just 15 years old in 2024 when France were shocked by Puerto Rico in the Round of 16 of the FIBA U17 World Cup and ended up finishing ninth despite being one of the top title challengers.
"I remember the player who scored more than 40 points, how bad we were against the zone defense and the feeling of the defeat," Soliman said referring to Puerto Rico’s Felipe Quinones and his 42-point outburst in the 91-84 upset.
I believe I have learned from it and will do my best for it not to happen again
"It doesn't hurt anymore because I took it as an experience. I believe I have learned from it and will do my best for it not to happen again."
France had high expectations heading into that tournament after taking second place in 2018 and then third place in 2022. Soliman and co. also played tough against United States in the opening game of the competition before losing 101-84. But the team stumbled in the first knockout game.
"Handling pressure is a huge part of the game. Every game matters and all teams are difficult because each has their own style and you have to be ready to give it all at each game, especially after the group phase where each game is crucial," said Soliman, who averaged 7.3 points and 3.6 rebounds despite being two years younger.
The Nantes forward said he really looks forward to leading France in Istanbul.
"I am very motivated. World Cups are exciting because you get to play countries outside Europe,” he said. “Also, compared to two years ago, I will be with my age group so it will be interesting to test myself against players my age."
Just like two years ago, France once again will face United States in the opening game of their tournament, being drawn into Group A with Italy and Japan as well.
"It's a really difficult group. All the teams are very good. But I know that our aim will be to bring back a medal so we will have to take each game seriously and do our best," he said.
Soliman knows facing the United States always means something more.
"Playing against the Americans is great. They are usually dominant, very athletic and strong. My goal is to play in the NBA and facing them is a way to test myself," said Soliman, who picked up 6 points and 5 rebounds in the FIBA U17 World Cup opener in 2024 against USA. "I feel I am better prepared because it will be my generation. Two years ago, I was only 15 playing with 17 years old. Now my body is more mature and I have played two seasons against adults."
France once again will be loaded with talent, and Soliman will have another star prospect alongside him in Türkiye in point guard Aaron Towo-Nansi.
Aaron (Towo-Nansi) is a terrific player
"I have known Aaron for six years now and he is a terrific player. I expect him to play his game, to bring his energy on defense and desire to win. He is very enthusiastic on the court and has great vision. His experience is also an asset for our team," Soliman said of the playmaker who averaged 3.7 points and 1.7 assists as a 16-year-old in the Basketball Champions League with French side Cholet Basket this season.
"In my opinion, he will be one of the best point guards of the tournament. I hope that we can bring our experience to this team and that we can help the team win."
Soliman and Towo-Nansi definitely can look to their head coach for guidance in terms of winning experience. The French federation assigned Tony Parker to coach the U17 team - the first coaching position for the four-time NBA champion who also helped France win four FIBA EuroBasket medals including the title in 2013 as well as taking third place at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2006.
"We all know his career achievements. He will share this experience with us, so it's a real bonus to have him as the head coach," Soliman said.
Tony Parker counts on me
"My impressions (of Parker) are great. He counts on me and I am really happy to be able to get to know him. He knows the game so well and is passionate about it. He wants to give back and pass on what is has learned throughout his career. I can't wait to learn from him."
Soliman knows the talent of himself and Towo-Nansi and Parker’s experience does not guarantee France a podium spot.
"It would be a big achievement for the team. We know how hard it is to bring a medal home. Last summer was not easy and we qualified with difficulty for the FIBA U17 World Cup," said Soliman, referring to France's fifth placed finish at the FIBA U16 EuroBasket 2025. "We know things won't be easy, but we'll come out with lots of energy and passion and hopefully we can bring a medal home like our predecessors."
And what about giving the country their first FIBA U17 World Cup title - and end the Americans' run of seven consecutive crowns?
"We know it is a very difficult competition so it will take a lot of work, focus and determination," said Soliman.
The pieces are in place for France to challenge the Americans.
But that was the case two years ago as well - as Nathan Soliman knows all too well.
FIBA