From the early days to donning the colors of Montbrison Feminines BC, Ysaline Saulnier's ascent in the basketball world has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. A firm believer in the power of teamwork and camaraderie, she understands the importance of fostering a strong bond within her team; every moment! Photo: FIBA Europe

1.  How did you start playing basketball?

“Thanks to my parents who are also basketball players. It was my grandfather who told me I am great, so that is how it started.”

2.  Can you describe your playing style and strengths on the court?

“I am a versatile player. I know how to do everything and I can play on several positions. I am also able to defend strong against good opposing players.”

3.  Is there someone who inspires you?

“I really like LeBron James as a boy. I also love the games of Diana Taurasi and Sarah Michelle.”

4.  What are your aspirations and goals in your basketball career?

“I would like to go to the highest French level and even get to play in the EuroLeague. Also manage to join my national team.”

5.  Where have you played basketball yet?

“I played all over France and then in Finland, Slovenia, Spain, Hungary and Turkey.”

6.  How was it to play basketball for the very first time?

“The very first time I didn't like it at all, because I found that the exercises we did weren't very fun. Later on I went back for a second time, but this time it was my father who coached me and I loved it. I remember that I had so much fun.”

Photo: FIBA Europe

7. What challenges have you faced throughout her basketball journey, and how did you overcome them?

“I think my biggest challenge was my ankle injuries, which made me stop several times for a long time. Each time it happened again, and it irritated me a lot so I worked on my ankles and developed something else while waiting in be able to return to the field.”

8. Can you highlight any memorable performances or achievements of your career so far?

“My selections for the French team, especially during the U17 world championship when we beat Canada for 3rd place. It was a very strong moment individual and collective. Nevertheless, I would say all the important matches are very good memories.”

9.  As you know, you only win as a team. How do you see the importance of team chemistry?

“I think that the chemistry is one of the keys to success. If there is not a good atmosphere in the team, then it is difficult to win and have fun together. Everything must be done, so that the individual is the saint of the collective.”

10.  You play for Montbrison. How would you describe this season so far?

“I would say that individually it is a bit of a discovery and a new experience to me. Collectively, it is a big surprise, because we didn’t expect to be 2^nd in the ranking. It is quite exceptional and very content of the season.”

11.  You are also a youth international, playing for the under 16, 17 and 18 team of France. Playing for the national team, what does that mean to you?

“It's a great pride! I am very happy to be able to represent my country and also it allows me to make my family proud. So I'm very happy to have had these kinds of experiences.”

12. What advice would you give to young aspiring basketball players?

“I will tell them that if they want to become a pro, they must be sure of it and prepare to work and make sacrifices. The most important thing of all of this is that whatever happens, they enjoy it, because each experience they will have will be great for learning and moving forward.”

13.  How do you handle pressure situations or setbacks during games?

“I have to admit that I don't know. Sometimes I'm just stressed before a match but I put myself in my bubble. I do things that I am used to do and that gives me confidence. Though I am quite nervous sometimes, once I get on the field, I just play and do what I like to do.”

14.  How do you contribute to the local community or youth basketball programs?

“In my club I try to go see the youth team to which I have been assigned, to help them during training. And when I am invited to discuss, I often respond if I'm available. It allows us to share experiences and that's very important I think.”

15.  Looking ahead, what does the future hold for you in her basketball career?

“I would say to fulfill the objectives that I set for myself in the short and long term and to always have fun and love my sport as I do.”