Orléans Loiret Basket could not have ended the year 2024 better. The players of Lamine Kébé finally defeated Poitiers in a match that they could have made easier (86-72). All in front of 9,928 spectators in a boiling CO'Met, which constitutes the ProB record.
The Orléanais experienced some difficulties getting into this meeting well. Trailing by five lengths (8-13, 5th), they quickly recovered under the leadership of Houmounou to take the lead at the end of the first quarter (20-18).
Fifteen points ahead at the break
Although clumsy with free throws, the Poitevins did not give up so easily (25-25, 13th). But Gabric's three-point basket allowed OLB to go ahead (28-26) and really start the Orléans steamroller thanks in particular to the skill of Negrobar, its captain (12 points at the break).
The fifteen lengths lead (44-29, 20th) completely liberated the Orléanais in the second half. The gap grew (56-33, 34th). Too easily perhaps because Poitiers took advantage of the guilty relaxation of the OLB to get back on track (62-54, 30th).
Negrobar finishes off Poitiers
Nothing was done at the start of the last quarter and even until the 33rd (66-59). Fortunately for the OLB, Poitiers lacked skill in its attempts at winning shots to get back on track (76-67, 37th).
An unsportsmanlike foul called against Harley, the Poitevin captain, ended up putting an end to the visiting resistance. And Negrobar, his Orléans counterpart, concluded the deal with a dunk and two free throws. Final score: 86-72.
Now time for a short vacation for the OLB players. The next day will take place on Friday January 10. The Orléanais will travel to Rouen.
Patrick Paumier
