Gerald Ayayi and Cholet sink Limoges at Beaublanc
Feb 8, 2026
Antoine Bodelet
Fabrice Lefranҫois after Cholet’s victory in Limoges: « We always put in a lot of energy and that’s what wore them down »
Betclic ELITE — After Cholet Basket’s 78–70 win on Limoges CSP’s floor, Fabrice Lefrançois offered a clear-eyed breakdown, highlighting his team’s intensity, mental toughness and composure in a venue that rarely gives anything away.
Photo Credit : Quentin Berbey / Limoges CSP
After spending most of the night playing from behind, Cholet Basket eventually wore down Limoges CSP in crunch time on Sunday at Beaublanc, during the 19th round of Betclic ELITE. A win patiently constructed through a hard-fought, physical contest—something Cholet head coach Fabrice Lefrançois was quick to emphasize in his postgame remarks.
A battle of intensity and nerves
Trailing for nearly 30 minutes, the Cholet Basket absorbed the pressure without cracking. That capacity to stay composed through the grind, their coach noted, ultimately proved decisive.
« We felt that we were putting them in difficulty as time went on. We were in difficulty at the start of the game, mainly because we weren’t very efficient on offense. That’s what allowed them to take the lead. But over the course of the game, I thought we showed a lot of courage and mental strength, because it’s tough to win here. »
In a very physical game played in good spirit, Cholet managed to impose their rhythm.
« It was a tough but very respectful game. We played real defensive basketball. We played at a different tempo, with long possessions but not slow ones, because we always put in a lot of energy and that’s what wore them down. What I really liked most of all was our composure today. »
A deliberate game plan against Limoges’ key players
The Cholet coach also explained that he targeted certain key CSP players to disrupt the opponent’s organization.
« We planned to target fouls on key players, Stergar in particular, and also Invernizzi, who gave us problems in the third quarter. I thought we were very focused, even without success, but with courage and effort. »
This discipline allowed Cholet to stay in contact until the right moment.
Outside shooting at the best moment
Struggling for much of the game, the Maugeois found their touch from 3-point range in the second half, an area where Cholet has several weapons this season.
« We have quite a few assets from 3-point range. In the second half, we were really accurate, and without Chibuzo Agbo. What I especially like is seeing players who were struggling a bit turn games around today. We can talk about Digué Diawara and Keshawn Justice. »
Led notably by Gerald Ayayi, who scored 18 points, Cholet thus reversed a badly positioned situation to secure an 11th victory this season.
Cholet’s momentum confirmed
With five wins in their last six outings, Cholet Basket continues its strong run and further cements a spot in the Betclic ELITE top eight. Fabrice Lefrançois’ group will look to keep the momentum going next round against Gravelines-Dunkerque.
On the other side, Limoges CSP faces a quick turnaround on the road in Dijon, where the priority will be to stop the slide and finally spark a positive run.
At Beaublanc,
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