JDA Dijon remains undefeated in 2026-2027 season

As of Friday, October 30, 2026, the JDA Dijon is the last undefeated professional French basketball team in all competitions at the start of the 2026-2027 season. The team has a perfect 5-0 record in the Betclic ELITE league, with victories at home and on the road, and also a win in the French Cup against a second-division team.

Financial constraints affect European Cup participation

The JDA Dijon is not participating in the European Cup this season due to financial challenges. The club's annual budget has decreased by 9 percent, from 6.4 to 5.8 million euros, which has also led to a reduction in the salary cap for players.

Key players and strategic signings

The team has retained two point guards, Justin Bibbins and David Holston, and has added the complementary duo of Williams Narace and Kregor Hermet. Quentin Losser, who performed well in his first season, was paired with Shevon Thompson, MVP of the LNB All-Star Game 2024 and a member of the ideal five of the 2024-2025 season.

Coach emphasizes staying grounded

Laurent Legname, who transitioned from coach to sports director this summer, emphasized the importance of remaining focused despite the strong start. He noted that the Betclic ELITE is a long season and that many challenges could arise, urging the team to stay disciplined and grounded.

Focus on domestic league and player health

The JDA Dijon has not experienced any major injuries this season, allowing for a strong preseason. The absence of the European Cup enables players like Vincent Dumestre to focus on the domestic league. Dumestre, who has been the main coach since 2016, is committed to two more seasons and aligns with the club's values of defense, teamwork, and discipline.

Club's long-term goals and roster changes

The club's ambition is to return to the European Cup next season, with Legname stating that the entire organization is determined to achieve this. The roster has been partially renewed with a focus on increasing the team's athleticism, despite the reduced salary cap. The new structure, led by Dumestre, is seen as a necessary step to build a strong foundation for future success.