France pulled off a thrilling 78–73 victory over Spain in Paris, rallying from a 16-point halftime deficit in a EuroBasket preparation clash.
The win came just two days after Les Bleus had also topped Spain in Badalona on Thursday (14/8), giving them back-to-back triumphs over their long-time rivals.
Spain entered the matchup shorthanded, already missing Santi Aldama, Alberto Díaz, and Darío Brizuela.
To make matters worse, coach Sergio Scariolo’s side suffered further setbacks early in the contest when Alberto Abalde and rising prospect Mario Saint-Supery were forced to leave the game in the first quarter due to injuries.
Taking advantage of Spain’s difficulties, France gradually clawed back into the game. Bilal Coulibaly contributed 13 points while Matthew Strazel added 11, sparking a turnaround after their team had trailed 28–44 at the break.
The French defense tightened, and an explosive 18–3 run bridging the third and fourth quarters completely shifted momentum, giving France a 73–67 lead with just under three and a half minutes left on the clock.
Spain refused to fold. In the final minute, Santi Yusta knocked down a clutch three-pointer to cut the deficit to 75–72. But Strazel responded immediately from long range, burying a decisive triple with 22 seconds to play that effectively sealed the win for the hosts.
Yusta finished as Spain’s top performer, tallying 19 points along with seven assists, while veteran big man Willy Hernangómez added 15. For France, the game carried extra emotional weight.
The federation honored two iconic figures of French basketball – former captain Nicolas Batum and guard Nando De Colo – who both officially bid farewell to the national team following the Paris Olympics.
The rousing comeback win provided the perfect backdrop for a night of tribute and celebration.
France comes back fron down 16 to beat Spainhttps://t.co/FflO0LIGir
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) August 16, 2025
