A Strategic Overhaul for the French Side
Paris Basketball is putting the finishing touches on a contract with Alize Johnson, a 30‑year‑old forward who brings five seasons of NBA experience. Johnson’s most productive NBA stretch came with the Brooklyn Nets in 2020‑21, where he posted 5.2 points and 5 rebounds per game. After a stint in the G League with the Iowa Wolves, he moved to China’s Shenzhen Leopards for the latter half of the 2025‑26 season, averaging 12.0 points, 7.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists. Prior to that, he had brief experiences in Asia and Puerto Rico, giving him a global résumé that aligns with the club’s ambition to compete internationally.
The agreement comes alongside the recent signings of guard Tyson Etienne and forward T.J. Warren. Warren shares a former teammate connection with Johnson from their Indiana Pacers days during the 2019‑20 season, adding a familiar chemistry to the roster. These additions are part of a broader effort to reshape the squad ahead of the upcoming EuroLeague schedule.
A Coach With a Vision
Under the direction of newly appointed head coach Max Lefevre, the French club is looking to make some noise in the EuroLeague. Lefevre inherits a team anchored by veteran leader Nadir Hifi and rising star Jared Rhoden, both of whom have already proven their capabilities in Europe’s top competition. The coaching staff hopes that the blend of NBA‑tested talent and seasoned EuroLeague performers will translate into a more aggressive, versatile style of play.
The front office believes that the mix of Johnson’s rebounding prowess, Etienne’s playmaking, and Warren’s scoring versatility will give Paris Basketball the depth needed to contend against elite European clubs. By integrating these players into a system that emphasizes both defense and ball movement, the club aims to turn its recent signings into a tangible push for playoff contention.