3x3 - France prepares for 3x3 World Championships

POITIERS (3x3) - With less than two months before the inaugural FIBA 3x3 World Championship for Men and Women takes place in the Greek city of Athens, France are looking to make the most out of this world premiere experience.

"My colleague and I contacted a lot of professional players in France that had the specific 3x3 profile," said Richard Baillant, the French Basketball Federation (FFBB)'s 3x3 head coach.

"We explained to them FIBA's and the French Federation's project for 3x3 and we only retained the players who showed the most interest for this unique initiative."

The reason why France has selected its preliminary men's and women's squads so soon is to not only promote 3x3 in various cities across the country, but more importantly to assure that each group is unified and that all players have the same goals.

"For this exceptional preparation, I want to make sure that both the men and women's team practice together in order to guarantee that they have the same approach to the 3x3 game," explained Baillant.

The FFBB have multiple tournaments planned for both teams where they can play 3x3, allowing the players to get accustomed to one another.

These events are also a great way to promote the sport to the French general public and allows for an awareness to spread about the players who will represent their country at the World Championship.

"There is real enthusiasm for this game and I am confident for the future," concluded Baillant.


FIBA