Nicolas Batum

Nicolas Batum (born December 14, 1988 in Lisieux) is a French basketball player with SLUC Nancy. He is also under contract with the Portland Trail Blazers, and is expected to return to that team once the 2011 NBA lockout ends. The Blazers acquired his rights during the 2008 NBA Draft for the rights to Darrell Arthur and Joey Dorsey. Prior to the draft, Batum was considered one of the most talented young players in Europe. He was voted the most valuable player in the U-18 in Mannheim 2006.

The 6 foot 8 inch (2.03 m) Batum primarily plays the small forward position, although he is also capable of shifting to the shooting guard position.

Career

French youth teams

Batum won the 2004 FIBA European Championship with the French national team.

Albert Schweitzer Tournament

Batum was named the most valuable player of the 2006 U18 Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Mannheim. He won the tournament with the French national team.

Batum's averaged 19 points, over 5 rebounds and over 2 steals per game over the seven game tournament.

French......
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