Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot, the breakthrough at Baskonia: « The role that truly suits me 100% »

Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot (2.01 m, 30 years old) has never seemed so consistent and comfortable on a European court. At 30, the French international is carrying Baskonia offensively, both in Liga Endesa and EuroLeague, displaying statistical standards worthy of the continent’s best scorers. Before AS Monaco’s trip to Vitoria, the veteran spoke extensively to TV Monaco about what he considers the best period of his career.

A successful individual season

At the one-third mark of the EuroLeague season, Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot gives a clear assessment of his level of play. « Individually, I would say it’s successful. All the goals I set for myself have been achieved, » he explains, while nuancing the collective aspect. Strong at home but struggling more on the road, Baskonia has had to deal with injuries and roster adjustments, without ever completely falling off track.

A role finally tailored for him

EuroLeague’s second-leading scorer, the former NBA player especially savors the consistency of his role. « It’s the first time since I arrived in Europe that I’m in a role that truly suits me 100%, » he confides. After stints in Milan or at ASVEL marked by fluctuating responsibilities, he’s playing this season fully in his natural position.

The system implemented by Italian coach Paolo Galbiati suits him perfectly, as does his use coming off the bench: « I found my rhythm pretty quickly. Coming in, there are already fouls on the board, I can be more aggressive. »

A key relationship with his coach

The mutual trust between player and coach is one of the pillars of this season’s start. « He told me very quickly: ‘You’re a leader, you’re going to lead the team,' » Luwawu-Cabarrot recounts. A clear, confident message that immediately established him as one of the key pieces of the Basque project. This relationship, built on constant exchanges and mutual trust, fuels both his performances and the group’s stability.

Maturity and 3-point shooting

Another symbol of his evolution: an outside shooting accuracy exceeding 46%. « That was really a goal, » he explains, mentioning a mental barrier long difficult to overcome. Now liberated, the player from the French Riviera fully embraces his status as a shooter: « Today, I don’t hesitate at all anymore. I keep taking my shots with confidence. »

At 30, he feels he has reached a decisive form of maturity: « I know who I am. I have no problem taking on responsibilities. »

Staying the course to the end

Despite this hot start, Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot refuses any excessive projections. « We’re only at one-third of the season. We have to continue, stay the course, » he insists, aware that his consistency can also serve as an engine for the collective. A simple guideline, but one that, for now, makes him one of the most reliable offensive players in Europe.