Julien Cortey on Michael Caicedo: « A big Spanish prospect who will bring us aggressiveness »

Michael Caicedo (1.99m, 21 years old) will wear the Stade Rochelais jersey for the end of the 2024-2025 season. As a medical replacement for Lucas Hergott, the 21-year-old Spaniard comes from Lérida, which announced his departure this Monday, March 31. While this transfer was expected, initial reactions confirm the ambitions on both sides. Particularly those of coach Julien Cortey, who is betting heavily on this promising player.

Julien Cortey: « He will bring mental and physical freshness »

Presented as a team player, capable of strong defense and running, Michael Caicedo will need to adapt quickly to Betclic ELITE. But Julien Cortey believes in his immediate impact:

« Michael is an athletic small forward who will bring us a dimension we’ve been missing since Lucas’s injury. He will bring mental and physical freshness, but also his ability to quickly move forward on fast breaks and transition play, » analyzes the La Rochelle coach.

The former Barça player is seen as a real defensive asset:

« He’s a rather complete player, still developing. A big Spanish prospect who will bring us aggressiveness in offense, his physical dimension in defense. He’s capable of making an impact on his man and fighting for rebounds. »

Michael Caicedo: « I’m here to help the team »

For his part, the player shows a clear desire to integrate quickly:

« I’m very happy to come play for Stade Rochelais. I’m here to help the team in the final stretch. I will give my best to contribute as much as possible. The staff gives me a lot of confidence to express myself on the court, as I know how to do. »

➾ 𝗟𝗢𝗖𝗞𝗘𝗗 𝗜𝗡.

🙌🏼 We are pleased to announce the arrival of 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗖𝗮𝗶𝗰𝗲𝗱𝗼 who comes to strengthen the La Rochelle wing!

⟾ Position 3
⟾ 1m99 & 21 years old
⟾ Swiss army knife#BetclicELITE | #WelcomeMichael | #FievreSR

— Stade Rochelais Basket (@SR_Rupella) March 31, 2025