Quimper, Antibes and Orléans win away, Roanne and Blois victorious at home
The 2025-2026 ELITE 2 season is underway. After Vichy’s victory at Caen on Thursday, the other nine matches of the first round took place on Friday, September 19, without broadcasting due to technical issues with Keemotion. Between favorites confirming expectations, promoted teams surprising, and standout individual performances, the championship showed its first face.
Orléans lives up to expectations at Nantes
Among the promotion contenders, Orléans Loiret Basket perfectly launched their season by winning authoritatively on Nantes’ court (72-87). Thomas Drouot’s men started strong, already leading 14-43 at the 16th minute. Though Nantes thought they could come back thanks to Kyle Riddley and Matyis Kangudia (67-75, 34th), the Loiret team controlled the end of the game relying on collective ball movement (27 assists).
Blois carried by Jeu de Paume’s frenzy
At home, ADA Blois secured an important first win against SCABB (85-81). Without Fabien Damase, David Morabito’s players compensated with their outside shooting (15/37 from 3-point range). Jonas Boulefaa hit a decisive three-pointer late in the game to give his team the lead (80-79). The evening was even more special as Talis Soulhac celebrated his 19th birthday in front of an electric crowd.
Quimper strikes at Évreux, Pau resists Challans
Newly promoted Quimper won at Évreux (72-87), led by Terrell Gomez’s 18 points. The Rams had already killed the suspense by halftime (+21, 28-49) after a strong start (13-27, 10th). The other promoted team, Challans, long held their own against Pau but their 27 turnovers proved costly in the end (77-67).
Antibes and Champagne Basket successful in their debut
Antibes won a tight game at Poitiers (79-87). Down late in the game (71-67, 34th), the Sharks could count on a decisive duo: Bathiste Tchouaffé (15 points, 6 rebounds, 3 steals) and Shekinah Munanga (24 points in 21 minutes). Champagne Basket narrowly won against Hyères-Toulon (81-80) thanks to Maël Hamon-Crespin’s 20 points.
Rouen solid, ASA continues its momentum
At home, Rouen dominated Stade Rochelais (85-77) by crushing the rebounding battle (47 to 29). Last season’s surprise playoff finalist, Alliance Sport Alsace confirmed their defensive identity by holding Denain to 35% shooting to win 76-69. Finally, Roanne disposed of Aix-Maurienne (79-73) with five players scoring between 10 and 12 points.
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