Winners in Salamanca (51-62) and at home against Brno (76-60), the two French clubs confirmed their place among the top four of Group E during the 11th day of the Euroleague Women even before the last day scheduled for Tuesday January 28. Bourges (3rd) and Basket Landes (4th) are already qualified for the play-in, the jump-off for the new Final Six.
Bourges in search of second place
In Salamanca, forced to play despite an epidemic of gastroenteritisOlivier Lafargue's team did not have to force its talent. The Tangos built their success with a strong second half, limiting Salamanca to just 16 points. Amy Okonkwo stood out with a high-flying double-double (21 points, 11 rebounds).
A success which allows Bourges to consolidate its position in the ranking. In the event of a victory next Wednesday against Schio at the Prado with a sufficient margin to make up for the defeat of the first leg (67-62), the Berruyères could take second place to the detriment of the Italians. This would give them direct access to the Final Six, already reached by Fenerbahçe, Mersin and Valencia. Otherwise, Bourges will have to go through a round-trip play-off against an opponent from Group F.
Historic first for Basket Landes
At the same time, Basket Landes won its place among the eight best European teams for the first time. Trailing at half-time against Brno (34-38), the Landeses reversed the situation after returning from the locker room in a one-sided second half, won 42 to 22. Leïla Lacan, still decisive with 18 points, guided his team to this memorable victory, their sixth of the European season.
“From the moment we had our backs to the wall, we understood that it would be in the investment and the energy that it would put in, we were rewarded in the second half”explained Captain Clarince Djaldi-Tabdi in Southwest.
-French women shine
In this same group E, Mersin, leader with its successful French duo (Marine Fauthoux at 11 points and 8 assists, Iliana Rupert at 18 points and 11 rebounds), suffered its first European defeat at Schio (83-71). In group F, Fenerbahçe, on the other hand, continued its flawless performance by dominating Venice (86-66) with an excellent Gabby Williams (13 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists).
The highlights of Salamanca – Bourges:
Les highlights de Basket Landes – Zabiny Brno :
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