France Dominates Finland in Pau
France asserted their dominance early, building a decisive 15-point lead in the first quarter en route to a commanding 98-69 win over Finland in FIBA World Cup Qualifier action. The French squad, buoyed by a remarkable 59 points from their bench players, controlled the game from start to finish, leading by 19 at halftime and extending their advantage to 30 entering the final period. Reserve forward Maxime Raynaud led the charge with 16 points and 7 rebounds, closely followed by fellow reserve Elie Okobo who also poured in 16 points and dished out 5 assists. Rudy Gobert anchored the defense with 8 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Despite 14-point efforts from both Lauri Markkanen and Mikael Jantunen, Finland struggled offensively, hampered by France's 24 assists and their own 12 turnovers. This emphatic victory sends a strong message as France continues its qualification campaign.