Projected No. 1 pick Victor Wembanyama neared 20 points on Monday to lead the French national team to a win and a berth in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Wembanyama produced a team-high 19 points, four rebounds, two steals, two blocks and one assist in 24 minutes of work in the 92-56 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. He went 7-of-15 from the field, including 3-of-6 from 3-point range.
The 7-foot-4 center was active on both ends of the court and was dominant in the paint. He used his size and skill to outwork the opposition and connected with his teammates on a few lobs. He even hit a one-legged 3-pointer early in the game.
The outing was the second for Wembanyama with France. He debuted with the senior team on Friday in a win over Lithuania, recording 20 points, nine rebounds, one assist and one steal. France won both games in the fifth qualifying window to improve to 8-2.
France, along with Lithuania (8-2), will advance to the FIBA Basketball World Cup from Group K. The top three teams from each group earn tickets to the tournament. Montenegro (6-4), Bosnia and Herzegovina (5-5) and Hungary (5-5) remain in contention for the final berth.
The 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup will run from Aug. 25-Sept. 10.
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