Gomez given task of returning Sweden to FIBA EuroBasket Women Final Round

STOCKHOLM (FIBA EuroBasket Women 2019 Qualifiers) – Having missed out on EuroBasket Women 2017, Sweden are putting their faith in Francois Gomez to propel them to the subsequent edition of the tournament.

The French play-caller has been selected after a thorough evaluation process, with the Swedish Federation Board Directors giving the current coach of French club Tarbes the green light to take over a squad with a good selection of EuroLeague Women, EuroCup Women and WNBA players.

The 56-year-old Gomez has twice been named Coach of the Year in his homeland and previously led French national teams to medals at U18 level. He will be assisted by Francisco Pinto, who is head coach of Swedish club side Wetterbygden.

"It feels great and inspiring with Francois as the new coach," said national team captain, Elin Eldebrink.

"I think this is a decision that can take us to the next level."

Meanwhile, Secretary General of the Federation, Lena Wallin-Kantzy said: "We are all in agreement that this solution is very good.

"We get an international, highly qualified and experienced coach.

"We also have Francisco Pinto who is an ambitious Swedish coach, who wants more international experience," she added.

The draw for the FIBA EuroBasket Women 2019 Qualifiers will take place in June and the three qualifying windows will be in November 2017, February 2018 and November 2018.

FIBA