#2 France, Rank-5
France has won the silver medal twice at the Olympics in basketball, in 1948 and 2000. They feature a dominant starting lineup led by superstar Tony Parker. His ability to make a splash on offense and years of championship experience with the San Antonio Spurs will serve them well.
They have a pair of immensely capable forwards in Boris Diaw and Nicolas Batum. Diaw's cerebral game was tailor-made for international competition, and Batum's athleticism and size can put the clamps on the star wings of the opposition. In Nando de Colo, France is fielding another former Spur who can make an impact. The 2016 Euroleague MVP is a capable addition to the roster which features starters who have all played/are playing in the NBA.
In the middle, France has the Stifle Tower manning the fort and rejecting all comers with gusto. Rudy Gobert is an intimidating force in the middle, and France will rely upon him to anchor their defense.
After Spain, it is likely that France present the strongest threat to Team USA's medal hopes.
