PARIS (FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2018) - France will be looking to veteran star Sandrine Gruda and the exciting Marine Johannes to lead their FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2018 campaign.

The pair were the standout names as head coach Valerie Garnier chose the 12 players who will represent France at this month's flagship event in Tenerife. 

Gruda is back at a major tournament for the first time since Rio 2016, having skipped  national team duties last year and that in itself will be a huge boost.

The backcourt will benefit from the talent of the free-scoring and exciting Johannes ,will be a favorite to light up the highlights reel and provide an offensive punch for France.

There will also be a big role for the likes of playmaker Olivia Epoupa, winger Valeriane Ayayi, center Helena Ciak and the experienced Endy Miyem.

One of the newest faces is Marieme Badiane, with the forward set to represent France at a major tournament for the first time at senior level - and that got a thumbs-up from the legendary Tony Parker. Meanwhile it's also the same for another two newcomers in Alix Duchet and Romane Bernies.

France are looking to hit the podium for the first time since the inaugural edition way back in 1953 when they finished in Third Place.

FIBA