Mathias Lessort to miss early preparation games for France / News - Basketnews.com

Mathias Lessort requires rest and care due to ankle discomfort. He will miss the first two friendly games against Tunisia and Montenegro.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

French national team center Mathias Lessort, who was called to the squad after a year of absence, will miss the first two FIBA World Cup 2023 preparation games against Tunisia in Pau on Monday and Montenegro in Montpellier on Wednesday.

Lessort, with 28 French NT appearances under his belt, hasn't been able to participate in any training sessions since arriving in Pau and the start of the training camp.

The medical staff has performed tests and confirmed that he's experiencing discomfort in his ankle, which requires proper care and rest.

His condition will be reassessed on August 6, just before another two friendly games scheduled in Orleans against Venezuela on August 7 and Lithuania on August 9.

France will play seven preparation games ahead of World Cup and face Tunisia, Montenegro, Venezuela, Lithuania (twice), Japan, and Australia.

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France FIBA World Cup preparation schedule

Date Opponent Location July 31st Tunisia Pau, France August 2nd Montenegro Montpellier, France August 7th Venezuela Orleans, France August 9th Lithuania Orleans, France August 11th Lithuania Vilnius, Lithuania August 17th Japan Tokyo, Japan August 20th Australia Tokyo, Japan Subscribe to BN+ and get access to exclusive content.