WIN a trip to the FIBA World Championship Finals weekend

STRASBOURG (FIBA World Championship) - France coach Claude Bergeaud praised his side's style and efficiency after Les Bleus won the Strasbourg international tournament following their 76-57 victory over China on Sunday.

France, who previously defeated Senegal (95-58) and Lithuania (71-64), produced another solid performance against the Asian champions, especially in the first half where point guard Tony Parker and co displayed a flawless performance to take a 25-5 advantage.

China fought back in the second and third quarters but never managed to unsettle the French.

In the final quarter Laurent Foirest posted 12 points by converting all his three-point shots while the home side proved stronger than ever in defence.

"The tournament overall was very positive for us," said Bergeaud.

"We wanted to win the tournament and we did, but we also did it with style.

"I would say we have recaptured the level, in defence at least, which allowed us to win bronze at the EuroBasket last year.

"The team is united and it's nice to see them play all together.

"But of course we still have to work hard to be more consistent."

Parker (16 points) and Foirest (12 points) were the top scorers.

The San Antonio Spurs point guard has, however, urged his team-mates not to rest on their laurels.

He said: "We clinched three good victories and we performed well in defence but we can still do better than that.

"Our first quarter was very good but then we relaxed our efforts, so we must keep on working.

"We must push our limits all the time, even when we are 20 points ahead."

Foirest meanwhile is convinced the team has reached a higher level than last year.

"Compared to last year we are far better," said the Pau-Orthez small forward.

"And in three weeks` time we will be even better.

"I am really happy with my performance this evening, I've experienced ups and downs throughout the match but I never doubted."

France are now set to return to Divonne-les-Bains for a few days before travelling to Athens, Greece, for another preparation tournament which will see them take on Italy, Croatia and Greece from July 31 to August 2.

Isabelle Rondeau
PA Sport, Strasbourg