Coach comments on team's loss

Arnaud Tessier, the coach of Limoges CSP, spoke about the team's 85-81 loss to Pau in the fifth round of the Betclic ÉLITE league on Sunday, October 25. He admitted the team struggled throughout the game, at one point trailing by as many as 19 points, and only managed to close the gap to two points in the final moments.

Lack of intensity criticized

Tessier expressed regret over the team's lack of aggressiveness at the start of the match, particularly criticizing the first-half performance. He acknowledged that the intensity was not at the level expected from a first-division team and took personal responsibility for not preparing his players adequately to be "warriors."

Second-half effort not enough

While the team played well in the second half and made some interesting plays, Tessier said the effort was still not enough to overcome the deficit. He praised Pau's coach for preparing his team effectively but admitted he had not done the same for his own squad.

Point guard takes responsibility

Andrew Albicy, Limoges CSP's point guard, echoed Tessier's comments, stating the defeat was his responsibility. He said the team showed better intentions in the second half but that the intensity was too late to make a difference in the outcome of the game.

Injury not the main issue

Tessier addressed the injury to Nicolas Lang, who was hurt on the ankle from the start of the match. He said the team did not use the injury as an excuse and acknowledged that Lang had tried to return. However, he emphasized that the main issue was the lack of intensity in the first half.

Pressure and fan disappointment

Tessier questioned whether the team could regain the intensity shown in the second half under pressure, noting that being just one win away from four losses was not ideal. He expressed disappointment for the fans who traveled to the match, saying the performance offered to them was "unimaginable and lamentable."

Coach blames himself for lack of commitment

Tessier concluded by taking personal responsibility for the team's lack of commitment, stating that beyond the win or loss, the concept of commitment was problematic. He said the match was an important moment and that the team had hoped to provide a "small ray of sunshine" for fans, but instead, it was another disappointment.