BesAC's recent struggles

The BesAC basketball team is preparing for a critical match against Saint-Vallier on Friday, October 16, at 8 p.m. local time at the Palais des sports de Besançon. This game is crucial as the team aims to secure its first victory in the championship this season.

Back-to-back losses

BesAC has lost its first four matches in the championship, including two home games against Val-de-Seine and Charleville. In all three of those games, BesAC led by significant margins—by 14, 13, and 15 points respectively—but ultimately lost in the final moments.

Coach's advice for improvement

Team coach Laurent Kleefstra believes the key to turning things around is maintaining consistency throughout the entire 40-minute game. He emphasized the need for the team to focus on physicality and rebounding, especially when facing Saint-Vallier's athletic style.

Saint-Vallier's performance

Saint-Vallier, a strong team in the league, has a 2-3 record after five matches. They have struggled recently, losing three consecutive games to SCABB, Mulhouse, and Boulogne/er. Despite this, they remain a formidable opponent.

Saint-Vallier's strengths

Saint-Vallier's success is largely driven by its starting five, including American point guard Nunn and perimeter players Labouize and Yao-Delon. The team's interior presence is provided by Kalemba, who averages 11 rebounds per game. This group accounts for 70.1% of the team's points.

BesAC's focus areas

Kleefstra highlighted the need for BesAC to improve concentration and three-point shooting. The team's three-point shooting, particularly from players like Augustinas Venckus, Hugo Cluysen, and Hugo Boumpoutou, has been a concern. Additionally, the effectiveness of players coming off the bench needs to be addressed.

Injury update

Nathan Pineau, the team's center, is recovering from a sprained ankle and is expected to return for the match against SCABB on October 23. His return could provide a boost to the team's interior presence and overall performance.

BesAC's current lineup

The BesAC starting lineup includes Pontens (captain), Hourné-Raubet, Venckus, Gonnet, Eliezer-Vanerot, Boumpoutou, Cagnet, Brival, Cluysen, Myrick, and Traoré. The team is coached by Laurent Kleefstra and assistant coach Raphaël Pegeot.