Before Becoming a Gamecocks Justine Loubens: Here’s The Main Reason Loubens Left

Before joining the South Carolina Gamecocks, freshman forward Justine Loubens was developing her basketball career in France, where she played for La Roche Vendée. Her decision to leave her home country and pursue an opportunity in American college basketball represented an important step in her development, both on and off the court.

Loubens officially signed with South Carolina on April 29, choosing Dawn Staley’s program after being attracted by its reputation, competitive ambitions and commitment to developing players.

However, her move to Columbia was about more than basketball. The opportunity to continue her education while competing at one of the highest levels of women’s college basketball, combined with the presence of longtime friend and fellow French player Alicia Tournebize, made South Carolina an appealing destination.

Now, as she prepares to make her official Gamecocks debut in her home country, her journey from France to South Carolina is becoming an important part of the program’s international story.

Life Before South Carolina: What Was La Roche Vendée?

La Roche Vendée was the French club Loubens represented before making the move to the United States.

Playing for a professional team provided the young forward with an opportunity to experience a competitive basketball environment before beginning her college career. Rather than entering American college basketball without senior-level experience, she arrived at South Carolina having already spent time competing against older and more experienced players.

During her time with La Roche Vendée, Loubens appeared in 24 games, averaging 6.5 points and 2.5 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 63.9% from the field.

Those numbers offer an early indication of her strengths. Her shooting efficiency suggests an ability to finish scoring opportunities around the basket, while her rebounding production reflects another area in which she could contribute.

Although her statistical production was modest, Loubens was still developing as a young player. Joining South Carolina provides an opportunity to learn within a different basketball system, improve her overall game and compete against elite collegiate talent.

Why Did Justine Loubens Leave France?

Loubens’ decision to move from France to the United States was influenced by her desire to combine two important priorities: education and basketball.

American college basketball offered her a pathway to pursue academic opportunities while continuing to develop as an athlete. South Carolina, in particular, presented an attractive environment because of its national standing, competitive expectations and history of developing talented players.

Dawn Staley’s influence was another important factor.

Staley has established South Carolina as one of the leading programs in women’s college basketball. The opportunity to learn from a coach with her experience and track record made the Gamecocks an appealing choice for Loubens.

The program’s emphasis on discipline, player development and competing for championships also aligned with what she wanted from the next stage of her career.

For a young international player, transitioning from French professional basketball to the American college game is a significant adjustment. The speed, physicality, schedule and demands of the SEC will challenge Loubens, but they also provide opportunities to grow.

Alicia Tournebize Played an Important Role

One of the most meaningful connections behind Loubens’ decision was her relationship with Alicia Tournebize, another French player who joined South Carolina.

The two are longtime friends who have known each other for more than a decade. Their basketball relationship also includes representing France together at the 2024 FIBA U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup and the 2025 FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket.

Having someone familiar with her background and playing experience already in Columbia made the transition more comfortable.

Their relationship extends beyond the basketball court. The two are now roommates, giving them another opportunity to support each other as they adjust to life in the United States.

Tournebize’s presence also helped South Carolina strengthen its connection with French basketball and made the program an even more attractive destination for Loubens.

What Can Loubens Bring to Dawn Staley’s Program?

Loubens arrives with several qualities that could make her a valuable long-term addition.

Her length, discipline, rebounding ability, basketball intelligence and feel for the game are among the attributes that have drawn attention from Staley.

Her 63.9% shooting mark with La Roche Vendée also suggests that she can be efficient when given opportunities near the basket.

However, adapting to South Carolina’s demanding system will take time. The Gamecocks have considerable depth, and Loubens will need to continue improving her physical strength, defensive positioning and understanding of the college game.

She was regarded as a four-star prospect by ESPN analyst Shane Laflin, although she was outside ESPN’s Top 100 rankings. That evaluation reflects the potential South Carolina sees in her rather than an expectation that she must immediately become a leading contributor.

A Special Homecoming in a Gamecocks Uniform

Loubens’ official debut for South Carolina in France makes her transition particularly meaningful.

After leaving her former club and beginning a new chapter in the United States, she now has the opportunity to represent the Gamecocks in front of supporters in her home country.

Her journey from La Roche Vendée to Columbia demonstrates the growing international reach of Staley’s program.

Loubens did not simply leave France to play basketball in America. She chose an opportunity to pursue her education, develop under one of the sport’s most respected coaches and continue her journey alongside a longtime friend.

Her first appearance in a South Carolina uniform on French soil will therefore represent more than a season debut. It will mark another important milestone in her journey from French basketball to the national stage.

About The Author