A Catalan Star is Born: Hugo Benitez Makes His Mark on the International Stage
Hugo Benitez, a 21-year-old point guard hailing from the Pyrénées-Orientales region of France, recently made his international debut for france against Portugal. Wearing the number 66 jersey, a nod to his home region, Benitez entered the game in the closing moments, contributing to France’s 69-56 victory.
His emergence at such a young age is remarkable, especially for a point guard, a position that often requires years of experience and maturity. Frédéric Sarre, who has witnessed Benitez’s advancement firsthand, highlights the player’s rapid ascent. Sarre, the director of JL Bourg, welcomed Benitez to the club’s training program back in 2016, when the young player was still honing his skills in Toulouges.
“Hugo’s arrival was facilitated by existing connections,” Sarre explains. “Jean-luc Tissot and Pierre Murtin, our training center coaches at the time, had ties to Hugo’s father, Benoit Benitez, who is originally from Bellegarde.Furthermore,Hugo’s great-uncle,Jean-Pierre Gomez,was the former president of the Lyonnais league,further strengthening the link.”
benitez’s journey from Toulouges to the international stage is a testament to his talent and dedication. His performance against Portugal suggests a radiant future for the young Catalan, who is poised to become a key player for both club and country.
