Rudy Gobert made an announcement on Instagram that he is ready to participate in the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, contrary to Victor Wembanyama.
French prodigy Victor Wembanyama made an announcement on Sunday stating his decision to skip the upcoming World Cup, scheduled to take place in Indonesia, Japan, and the Philippines between August 25 and September 10.
In contrast, Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert shared a subtle yet explicit message on Instagram, confirming his inclusion in the French national team.
A couple of months ago, Gobert expressed his uncertainty regarding his participation in FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 this summer. He mentioned his desire to utilize the offseason to work on his game and strive for the best season of his career.
Consequently, the French front line is expected to maintain its familiarity, featuring players such as Gobert, Moustapha Fall, Vincent Poirier, and Guerschon Yabusele, along with the potential inclusion of Partizan Belgrade big man Mathias Lessort.
Gobert, 31, has won five medals with the senior men's national team -- including silver at the FIBA EuroBasket 2022 last autumn -- and brings an imposing presence as one of the elite rim protectors in the world of basketball.
Gobert averaged 12.8 points and 9.8 rebounds per game at the previous FIBA tournament.
During FIBA World Cup 2023, France will play in Group H in Jakarta, Indonesia, and face Canada, Latvia, and Lebanon.
If France advances to the Second Round, it will meet teams from Group G, consisting of Iran, Spain, and Ivory Coast.
France's 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 |
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