Maxime Raynaud joins French national team for World Cup qualifiers
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 2:17 AM
Last updated Jul 6, 2026
Sacramento Kings center Maxime Raynaud is part of the French national team competing in World Cup qualifying games this summer. The team has recently defeated Belgium 92-64, though Raynaud did not play in that match. Rated highly by head coach Fred Fauthoux, Raynaud is recognized for his basketball IQ and potential growth alongside NBA talents including Rudy Gobert and Victor Wembanyama. Raynaud had a successful rookie season, averaging 12.5 points and 7.5 rebounds for the Kings, and his skills are set to be further developed during these qualifiers, allowing him to improve his 3-point shooting.
- •Raynaud was picked No. 42 overall in the 2025 NBA Draft.
- •He averaged 12.5 points and 7.5 rebounds last season.
- •Raynaud earned All-Rookie Second Team honors following his rookie campaign.
- •France's team includes several other NBA players and won their first qualifier.
- •Coach Fauthoux praises Raynaud's understanding of the game.
- 2:17 AMYahoo Sports — Kings Big Man Making Noise with French National Team
"Fresh off a dominant rookie campaign, Sacramento’s standout center joins a star-studded French roster, earning high praise from coaches while solidifying his status as a rising international force.
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