Toulouse Metropole Basket Claims French League Championship in Thrilling Finale
Table of Contents
Toulouse Metropole Basket (TMB) secured the French League title in a nail-biting victory against Montbrison, showcasing resilience and strategic prowess. This win marks their second championship in recent years, solidifying their position as a dominant force in French women’s basketball.
Dominance Displayed: TMB Clinches Championship
In a captivating rematch that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Toulouse Metropole Basket (TMB) emerged victorious against Montbrison with a final score of 73-70. This triumph, reminiscent of their 2022 victory, sealed the French League championship for TMB in just two games. The win also marks their thirteenth consecutive victory, a historic achievement for the team.
A Game of High Stakes and Strategic Plays
The final game was characterized by intense defensive plays and remarkable shooting accuracy from both sides. Although Montbrison initially dominated in rebounds, TMB compensated with remarkable defensive strategies, securing 16 crucial interceptions that ultimately proved to be the deciding factor. The dynamic duo of Cissé and Dramé propelled TMB to a ten-point lead (31-41) by the 19th minute. However, Montbrison quickly retaliated with two three-pointers from Louveton and Yerbe, narrowing the gap to 37-41 at halftime. Mosqueda-Lewis briefly extended TMB’s lead (41-50) in the 23rd minute.
Despite facing relentless pressure from Montbrison, fueled by standout performances from Muadi Bulabula and Clet, TMB maintained their composure. When Cissé once again extended TMB’s lead to ten points (53-63) in the 33rd minute, Montbrison intensified their efforts, causing fouls and capitalizing on the home crowd’s energy. With just two minutes and 25 seconds remaining, Tsobgny leveled the score (67-67) with free throws. Though, TMB remained steadfast, executing a crucial basket after a timeout, effectively silencing the Montbrison crowd and securing the championship.
This victory is especially poignant for Emily Prugnières, who was sidelined due to an injury sustained in the previous game. The team dedicated their performance to her, underscoring their unity and determination.
Coach’s Perspective and Player Celebrations
A jubilant Xavier Noguera, the coach of TMB, expressed his pride in his players’ unwavering spirit and focus throughout the season. The girls showed their warrior values once again that they conveyed throughout the season and was able to stay focused until the end,
Noguera stated after the match.
Binta Dramé echoed the sentiment, stating, the season ends in the best way with the title.And we’re going to celebrate it, it’s going to fart!
Captain Justine Soulard added, we didn’t want a third game. It was hard, physical. Really it’s nice.
The players were clearly eager to celebrate their hard-earned victory well into the night.
Statistical Breakdown of the Championship Game
the following statistics provide a detailed overview of the game’s key performance indicators:
Montbrison vs. Toulouse: key Statistics
Montbrison 70 – Toulouse 73
(19-18,18-23,16-17,17-15). Half-time: 37-41. Referees: MM. D. messaoudi and C.Cadet. 1,000 spectators.
For Montbrison: Muadi Bulabula (19), Yerbe (18), Camara (11), Tsobgny (10), vanderklugt (2) then Clet (5), Louveton (5) and Saulnier. 26 successful shots out of 51 (51 %) including 6 out of 16 to 3 points (38 %). 12 out of 17 in free throws (71 %).33 rebounds (Camara 6, Muadi Bulabula and Yerbe 5). 25 lost balls. 9 interceptions. 18 assists (Tsobgny 6). 15 faults.
For Toulouse: Mosqueda-Lewis (17), Dramé (16), Cissé (14), de Freitas (9), Traoré then Soulard (12), Whittaker (4) and Mfonow (1). 28 successful shots out of 62 (45 %) including 8 out of 26 to 3 points (31 %). 9 out of 12 for free throws (75 %). 29 rebounds (Mosqueda-Lewis 8). 17 lost bullets.16 interceptions (Soulard and de Freitas 3). 12 assists (Soulard 4). 18 faults.
