Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot dominates in EuroLeague with Baskonia: « I’m reaching the age of maturity »
Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot no longer seems rushed. That’s the first thing that stands out about the French forward this season. Not just his improved statistics or better percentages, but his way of managing possessions – measured, controlled, without stress. The game now unfolds at his pace.
A spectacular offensive explosion under Paolo Galbiati
The French player’s progression is striking. Last season, Luwawu-Cabarrot had crossed the 16-point mark only four times in 26 EuroLeague games. This year, under Paolo Galbiati’s guidance, he’s done it in 20 of his first 23 appearances. Averaging 19 points per game, he ranks fourth among scorers, behind Kendrick Nunn (19.4), Sasha Vezenkov (19.4) and Nadir Hifi (19.3).
The numbers speak for themselves. In 2024-2025, he averaged 10.0 points per game with 43.4% on 2-pointers and 33.7% on 3-pointers. This season, he’s almost doubled his production while improving his efficiency: 56.6% on 2-pointers and 42.1% from deep, for a rating of 16 compared to 7.3 last year.
« First, the system is different. It’s a system that suits me better, » he explains to Euroleague.net. « I also think the consistency comes from me reaching the age of maturity. I think my calmness on the court shows. I’m not rushed and I let the game come to me, but I’m aggressive at the same time. Before, maybe I was too rushed. Maybe I was trying to do too much. Now, with this system, I can just be myself playing the 3 position. »
Confidence restored through experience and system
This confidence particularly translates into his shot selection. Luwawu-Cabarrot is attempting more 3-pointers and this increased volume has sharpened his decision-making. « The volume this year has been so much higher than last year. Last year, I could go a whole game without attempting a 3-pointer. This year, I don’t know if I have a single game without attempting five, » he notes.
The relationship with Paolo Galbiati, despite a difficult start (0-7 to begin), has proven decisive. « He’s a coach close to the players. He listens to what we have to say and has his vision. At first, of course, it was an adjustment. We started 0-7, then we started winning, » the French player analyzes.
Today, with a record of 8 wins and 16 losses (thus 8-9 since that rough start), Baskonia has found its identity and Luwawu-Cabarrot his role as offensive leader. Although he’s in the race for top scorer, his priorities remain clear: « It wasn’t a goal when I started the season. I just wanted to win games and play to the best of my abilities. If it happens, that would be great, but it’s not the most important thing. I want to win games. »
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