The Betclic Élite season is nearing its climax as the playoffs unfold, with the semi-finals set to ignite the court on May 23. Paris Basketball secured their place in the semi-finals after defeating Cholet with a score of 74-62 in their third playoff match. This victory allows Paris to advance further in what is their first playoff journey in history. Tuomas Iisalo's squad will now face Asvel, which triumphed over Saint-Quentin in two matches.
The path to the finals requires each team to secure three wins, adding heightened pressure and anticipation. The semi-final matchups feature Monaco facing Bourg-en-Bresse and Paris Basketball going head-to-head against Asvel. Despite an initial scare in their first quarter-final match, Monaco showed their prowess by dismantling Le Portel with a commanding 101-70 victory. Bourg-en-Bresse, on the other hand, had a more challenging path to the semi-finals, having to clinch a decisive third match win against Nanterre, ending it 90-74.
The semi-finals are scheduled with Monaco and Paris, the higher-ranked teams, hosting the first two matches. Monaco, last season's defending champion, will host Bourg on May 23 and 25, before traveling for a potential decider on May 28. Similarly, Paris will host Asvel on May 23 and 25, with a trip to Villeurbanne set for May 28 should a third match be required. If no winner emerges from these encounters, additional matches will take place, possibly stretching the series to four or even five games.
In their quarter-final showdown, Bourg-en-Bresse's victory over Nanterre was a significant achievement, marking the end of Pascal Donnadieu's 37-year tenure as Nanterre's head coach. Despite the loss, Donnadieu expressed pride in his team's effort and announced his transition to the role of sporting director for the club. Nanterre, which has enjoyed notable success under Donnadieu's leadership, will be looking to write new chapters in its storied history.
The semi-final fixtures promise intense competition, with Monaco looking to defend its title and Paris Basketball aiming to continue its historic playoff run. Bourg-en-Bresse and Asvel also bring formidable challenges, ensuring that basketball fans are in for a thrilling conclusion to the Betclic Élite season.
- Paris Basketball's entry into the playoffs and their subsequent victories mark a historic moment for the club, signaling their growing presence in the league.
