Leïla Lacan’s journey in basketball has been marked by significant achievements both at the national and international levels. In November 2022, Lacan was invited to join the senior French team as a training partner for the Euro 2023 qualifications, a pivotal moment that did not see her play in official matches but set the stage for her future contributions. Her dedication and skill earned her a spot in the preparation for Euro 2023, where she made her debut on May 28, 2023, against Serbia. In her first game wearing the French jersey, she scored three points, quickly followed by a performance of nine points and five assists in 19 minutes the next day against the same opponents. Her ability to make an immediate impact was recognized by her coach, Jean-Aimé Toupane, who praised her qualities and enthusiasm on the field. Lacan’s inclusion in the Euro squad highlighted her rapid ascent in the senior team.
Lacan’s international career began in youth competitions, where she demonstrated her potential early on. At 15, she played in the 2019 U16 European Championship, finishing as the second top scorer for France and helping her team to a near podium finish. Her performance showcased her scoring ability with averages of 9 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.9 assists. Two years later, she advanced to the U19 World Cup, where, despite being the youngest on the French team, she led in assists with 5.7 per game and was the third-best scorer, underlining her versatility and leadership on the court.
In the summer of 2022, Lacan’s contributions at the U18 European Championship were instrumental in leading France to a bronze medal. With averages of 14.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4 assists per game, she was not only the team’s top scorer and passer but also received recognition as one of the tournament’s best five players. Lacan’s journey through the ranks of French basketball illustrates her evolving role from a promising youth athlete to a key player for the senior national team, setting a promising trajectory for her future in the sport.