France ring the changes
PARIS (FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2017) - After winning the FIBA U18 Women's European Championship 2016, France have opted to field a new-look side at the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup
PARIS (FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2017) - After taking gold at the FIBA U18 Women's European Championship last year, France have opted to field a new-look side when they hit the hardwood at the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2017.
A squad of 18 players has been confirmed for head coach Julien Egloff, with opportunities being given to a number of new candidates, as only half of last year's podium-topping team get back on board.
| France 18-player preliminary squad for FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2017 | |||
| Deborah Andre | Coralie Cadario | Diene Diane | Myriam Djekoundade |
| Chiara Drymon-Fontani | Astou Gaye | Loreen Kerboeuf | Moina Le Beherec |
| Camille Lenglet | Ludivine Marie | Amandine Michaud | Tima Pouye |
| Shelby Saint Juste | Kadiatou Sissoko | Aida Sow | Amandine Toi |
| Carla Venditti | Emma Vilas Gomis | ||
In some ways, France have become victims of their own success last summer and their prospects are likely will affected by the absence of last year's brilliant MVP Alexia Chartereau, who is pushing for a place with the senior team for FIBA EuroBasket Women 2017.
Much will hinge on the influential Tima Pouye who led the team in assists in Sopron, while Loreen Kerboeuf and Kadiatou Sissoko were also members of the starting five and will provide the backbone on Italian soil.
The players will undergo assessment at a preparation camp in Temple-sur-Lot between the 11 and 16 May.
France will face Canada, Latvia and Korea in Group C as they look to reach the Quarter-Finals for the fifth consecutive edition.
FIBA