Elan Béar Jérôme Bärskiralys Back from the Dead, Challenges HTV’s Top Attack
Following a rocky start marked by tough losses and a warmly welcoming homeland where five teams had already triumphed, Elan Béarn Pau hit the reset button. They begin the return phase with a remarkable 3-0 streak, echoing a new season and focusing on a defensive approach cherished by coach Pierre Velin.
Notably, Elan shut down Caen with their formidable defense, setting the stage for a daunting challenge ahead: a clash against league leaders Hyères-Toulon Var (HTV), boasting the third-best attack spearheaded by veteran John Roberson.
THE MATCH
Despite missing key players François Wibaut (thigh) and Marvin Clark, Drew Thelwell returned to boost Elan’s bench strength. Josh Mballa started, bringing a much-needed energy boost. However, HTV began the game with a sizzling shooting display, with Knezevic and Roberson draining early 3-pointers (8-2, 3rd).
Elan’s offense struggled, going just 4/17 from the field, including 0/8 from three. Mballa ignited a late comeback, scoring six points in two minutes to keep Elan in the hunt (23-19, 13th). Roberson took control, stretching HTV’s lead (33-25, 16th), but Thelwell responded with a trio of threes (38-34, 18th).
Roberson widened the gap with a backline three (45-39, 20th), but Elan clawed back in the second half, led by Ndiaye and Thelwell’s long-range shooting. The Béarnis took their first lead (47-50, 26th) before HTV’s Joseph went on a personal 9-0 run (60-54, 31st).
Mballa and Nze tied the game (63-63, 34th), but HTV held firm in the money time, behind Knezevic’s and Greenwood’s clutch shooting (83-76, 40th).
MAN OF THE MATCH
“He doesn’t have the Honorary Trophy for top scorer in Elite 2 by chance. John Roberson played a crucial role in HTV’s victory today.” – Mickaël Hay, Elan Béarn Pau Coach
– Mickaël Hay
TO THE STATEMENTS
In a match that slipped away due to costly missed free throws (7 / 14) and poor shot selection, Elan’s focus shifts to Tuesday’s game against Nantes. Both teams sit closely in the standings, sandwiching fourth place and 13th place with just two victories separating them. This top-5 clash will test Elan’s resurgent form.
FAQ
- Who is John Roberson?
- A veteran American basketball player, Roberson is one of the league’s top scorers and a leader for Hyères-Toulon Var.
- What is Elan Béarn Pau known for?
- Based in Pau, France, Elan Béarn Pau is renowned for their strong defensive play, a trademark of coach Pierre Velin’s tactics.
PRO TIP
Want to improve your shooting? Practice game-like shots in real-game situations during practice. Focus on your form and consistency.
CALL TO ACTION
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