By Jordan Sensi

 

After an excellent U16 Euro in 2013 with an all-tournament team selection, Etienne Ory (’96) couldn’t play during the entire 2013-2014 season due to a back injury. This year he plays with the Paris-Levallois Espoirs team, and is the leading passer of the league. 

 

How do you feel and what do you think about your season start?
I feel good. I just received a hit against Pau and I couldn’t play for 10 days due to a whiplash injury. But now I feel totally healthy, I keep working everyday on my strengthening program in addition to the workouts. About the season, everything is well, we have got a good group that helped me to integrate easily. About the basketball part, all is fine as well, it’s great to be back on the court, I need to play to recover my best level.

What is your role in Paris-Levallois this season? Will you have a few minutes in the ProA this season or does the coach rather you wait till next year?
This season I’m the starting point guard of the Espoirs team. The coach trusts me, and I practice everyday with the professional squad. I will do my best to get some minutes in ProA this season, but it won’t be easy, this is why I give my best at the training every single day.

Last season you played with INSEP in the NM1 (3rd French division), now you’re playing in the Espoirs league. How is the transition and what do you think about the Espoirs?
Both leagues are very different. The espoirs level is very athletic, players run a lot and the game is not very organized, not like in the NM1 where players are more experienced. To me it’s easier to play in the NM1 because of the knowledge of the game.

Which player is your role-model ?
Steve Nash has always been my favorite player, even if now he is not at the top anymore. In Europe I’m a big fan of Sergio Rodriguez even if he is Spanish (ED : There is a big rivalry between Spain and France at senior and youth internaltional competition). To me, he is very good and he is able to win a game by himself.

What is your long-term objective ?
My long-term objective is having a big role in an Euroleague team and winning it. That has been my dream since childhood.

Last question, last year you could watch your young INSEP teammates from the bench, this season INSEP has got some very interesting prospects, who should we keep in mind in your opinion ?
The 1997 generation is good, and the 1998 generation is very good. I suggest keeping an eye on Stephane Gombauld and Bathiste Tchouaffe.

Photo: Paris Levallois

Twitter of thr author: @Jordan_Sensi