Tarbes-Lourdes finds Mike Joseph’s replacement
NM1 - Union Tarbes Lourdes Pyrénées Basket has found a replacement for Mike Joseph, who was suspended following his arrest. The club strengthens with the arrival of Bali Coulibaly, an Ivorian international center who recently played for Levallois Metropolitans.
Photo Credit : Quentin Basnier
In search of interior reinforcement since the suspension of Mike Joseph (2.03m, 31 years old), Union Tarbes Lourdes Pyrénées Basket (UTLPB) is betting on Bali Coulibaly (1.99m, 30 years old) to complete its frontcourt.
The Ivorian international comes from Levallois Metropolitans, where he played as a medical replacement for Jordan Aboudou, who was injured in the finger. Recruited last month, the Abidjan native averaged 7.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 0.8 assists for an 8 evaluation in 20 minutes at the start of the season. With him, Levallois has a solid record of 5 wins in 5 games.
Stats 2025-2026 / NM1
PTS
7.6
#160
REB
5.4
#44
AST
0.8
#216
Bali Coulibaly, an experienced offensive profile
Known for his physical impact and energy, Bali Coulibaly is already familiar with the French NM1 championship, having spent 6 seasons there between 2018 and 2024. Having played for La Rochelle, Toulouse, Lorient, Poitiers and Caen, he was a recognized center in the division. An offensive center, he will bring density and experience to the team’s frontcourt.
The Ivorian international is already on the roster for tonight’s game between Pôle France and Tarbes-Lourdes, counting for the 7th round of NM1 Pool A.
Union turns the page on Mike Joseph
The club officially announced last Friday the immediate suspension of Mike Joseph, whose behavior was deemed « totally opposed to the Union’s values. » The former key player will no longer wear the club’s colors, as his trial for drug trafficking has been postponed to November 18, and he remains in custody.
With Bali Coulibaly’s arrival, the club wants to focus again on the court. His quick integration will be essential to maintain the team’s sporting balance and pursue the club’s ambitions at the top of the National 1 standings. Union is currently 5th in the rankings with 3 wins in 5 games.
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