Paris knocks out ASVEL

Published on March 13, 2026

ASVEL got caught out again ! Leading at halftime, the Villeurbanne team succumbed to Parisian fury in the second half this Thursday evening in a packed and electric adidas Arena for this 31st round of EuroLeague action (90-81).

Melvin Ajinca kicked off this French derby with a bang. Looking subdued, Coach Tabellini didn’t hesitate to call his first timeout early in the game to get things back on track. A wise decision! Fueled by a devastating catch-and-shoot from our Captain Seba, Paris Basketball closed the gap and then stabilized the lead. Our Parisians managed to create opportunities. Open shots as well as smart midrange shots were on the cards. But trying doesn’t guarantee success. Shooting wasn’t on our side during a first half where defense clearly dominated offense. The Villeurbanne players can attest to this, because after a good start, they took six minutes to break the dreaded one-point barrier in the second quarter! A mini-wilderness spell brought on by our backcourt, which remains as effective as ever at stifling opposing playmakers. Fortunately, with the ball in hand, Paris can rely on their octopus, Momo Faye, whose tentacles provide a second chance and a precious point under the basket in the first quarter. Then, big shots from beyond the arc by Lamar, Amath, and company allow our team to withstand ASVEL’s strong finish (31-40).

Paris varies their play, Paris takes risks, Paris plays, Paris enjoys themselves. More instinctive in their offense, our players are no longer content with the three-pointer as their main weapon. Less predictable, the visitors spread themselves thin on defense and see their nine-point lead melt away as quickly as ice cream on the beach. Then, following a completely insane play straight from JMO’s mind, Paris Basketball tied the game (46-46). That’s it, our fighting spirit is back in full force. Villeurbanne quickly felt the consequences thanks to the devastating blocks from Léo’s teammates. And for the second time in the game, we took the lead again with the famous fadeaway by our French international, Amath. Forget it! Paris had decided to give ASVEL no chance during this third quarter (60-53). Still reeling from Justin’s devastating step-back, Pierric Poupet’s men were hit head-on by the lightning-fast Allan, who slammed down a monstrous block and an insane dunk in five seconds. Our team also started racking up and-ones and dunks. Completely outmatched, Tony Parker’s team found no way to mount a comeback. However, a surge in long-range shooting gave our opponents a crucial game in the final minutes. Although they twice pulled within one possession, Justin, followed by Jared, sealed the victory (90-81).

Paris Basketball played with fire. A difficult first half and a close finish made for a thrilling contest. Ultimately, thanks to the unwavering support of the more than 7,500 fans in attendance, our Parisians secured a valuable win – their fourth in five EuroLeague games !

This XXXL week will conclude in style this Saturday at the adidas Arena with the Latino Game against Gravelines-Dunkerque at 3 p.m. For the last remaining tickets, click here.