Rudy Gobert has finger injury; coach says benching matchup related

Rudy Gobert is dealing with an undisclosed injury to his left ring finger however French coach Vincent Collet said that wasn't the only reason he brought the star center off the bench in Tuesday's win over Canada at the Paris Olympics.

France changed its starting lineup before the 82-73 win to reach the men's basketball semifinal, bringing Gobert off the bench and starting Victor Wembanyama at center.

Gobert ended up playing just three minutes in the contest.

After the game, Gobert -- who was sporting a splint on the finger -- said he underwent surgery on Sunday and was grateful to be able to play at all, according to The Athletic.

Collet said while Gobert underwent an MRI, he was cleared to play and the move to bring Gobert off the bench was matchup related.

France next plays Thursday vs. Germany for a shot at the final vs. either the United States or Serbia.