Very ambitious for this season, Élan Béarnais extends Mickaël Hay and Bastien Pinault until 2028

This Wednesday, Élan Béarnais invited the press for its media day. A time for discussion where all staff members presented their sporting and structural ambitions for the upcoming season. BeBasket was there and presents the main points.

Stated objective: return to Betclic ELITE

In his speech, President Guillaume Berbinau clearly states the club’s ambitions for the 2025-2026 season. The goal is clear: return to Betclic ELITE and sustainably. While the economic model remains fragile, Élan Béarnais is committed to a long-term project. The president emphasizes the desire to « build a structured club focused on development and aim for stability in governance and staff. »

Striking a balance between youth and experience

Guillaume Berbineau also wants to « rediscover the club’s DNA and put development at the heart of action. » Thus, « the desire of coach Mickaël Hay and staff was to build a coherent team. A careful mix of experience and youth. »

Like the president, General Director Audrey Sauret confirms Guillaume Berbinau’s statements. While the goal is to return to Betclic ELITE without going through playoffs, strengthening communication and marketing are areas for improvement next season. With a budget of 5.7 million euros for the 2025-2026 season, Élan Béarnais wants to « target both a younger audience while also broadening audience targets to reach everyone. » To attract a wider audience and retain families, a bodega project will soon be launched.

Bastien Pinault and Mickaël Hay tied to Pau until 2028

The same message from Sports Director Julien Lalanne. Regarding young player development, he cited the example of Kevin Marsillon-Noléo (2.00 m, 23 years). After a great 2024-2025 season with Pau, the Martinican center signed for two years with SLUC Nancy, where he’ll discover Betclic ELITE. The goal is to « win all games » even though the level in ELITE 2 next season is very high. Julien Lalanne took the opportunity to announce contract extensions for captain Bastien Pinault (1.95 m, 30 years) until 2028 and coach Mickaël Hay who will also lead the professional team until 2028.

In building his roster, head coach Mickaël Hay wanted « versatile players for different positions. » While Bastien Pinault « facilitates young players’ integration and has natural leadership, » other recruits like Thomas Cornely (1.90 m, 33 years), will bring their « versatility and competitive spirit. »

Two questions for François Wibaut

Bronze medalist at U20 EuroBasket this summer, François Wibaut (1.98 m, 20 years) signed for three seasons with Élan Béarnais. Heavily used during this European championship under Mickaël Hay, he discussed his relationship with the coach and his experience with the national team.

« Pau is a historic club that conveys real values that I identify with as a person and player. Everyone knows this club. Having Coach Hay in charge greatly facilitated my decision. Before signing here, I was able to speak with him on the phone and we immediately clicked. We share work ethic and values. It was natural to join him in Pau this fall. […] I’ve already played in lower divisions (with LyonSO in Nationale 1), where I was able to shine. During my time in Rouen, I also grew and gained experience. Next season at Élan Béarnais, I hope to have more responsibilities and impact the game. »

Players will return to training on August 11 before starting a series of preparation games and looking toward a new season that promises to be full of emotions.