By winning by one point (86-87) at Chalon-sur-Saône, Saint-Chamond took a three-victory lead, in addition to the point-average, over his evening opponent. While the locals had managed to come back at the end of the match (from 70-81 to 81 everywhere), after being left behind by more skilful visitors (12/27 at 3-points, against 9/32) and collective (22 assists decisive against 16), Michael Oguine launched himself towards the basket to go up to the dunk on attack placed 15 seconds from the end. Touched, the Californian could not score the basket but managed one of his two free throws. What give the advantage to the group of Alain Thinet. Behind, Desi Washington missed the last Chalonnaise attempt. With 20 wins in 26 matches, Saint-Chamond digs the hole with Nancy (16 wins, 8 losses) and Chalon (17 wins, 9 losses).
Blois, Antibes, Vichy and Evreux in pursuit of the top 3
Behind this trio, we find Blois. Despite Mbaye Ndiaye’s injury, the ADA went to stop Nantes to sign their 16th victory in 25 matches. Thomas Cornely’s team is ahead of the Sharks (15 wins, 11 losses) who signed an important victory against their pursuer, Saint-Quentin (14 wins, 11 losses). Behind we find Vichy (13 wins, 11 losses) and Evreux (14 wins, 12 losses). The JAV, with the successful return of Charles Bronchard (20 evaluation), dominated Boulazac which remains relegated.
Behind, Denain (11 wins, 14 losses) and Alliance Sport Alsace (11 wins, 15 losses) continue their rise in the standings with victories against Aix-Maurienne and Lille.
The results of the Pro B evening:
- Alliance Sport Alsace vs Lille : 76-71
- Denain vs Aix-Maurienne : 73-64
- Vichy vs Boulazac : 93-74
- Nantes vs Blois : 69-78
- Antibes vs Saint-Quentin : 95-85
- Elan Chalon vs Saint Chamond : 86-87
- Rouen vs Evreux : 81-88
- Saint Vallier vs Tours : 80-71