For its first Euroleague final (and the first for a French club since Valenciennes in 2004), Villeneuve-d’Ascq suffered a heavy defeat, Sunday in Mersin (Turkey), against Fenerbahçe Istanbul (106-73), reigning European champion and big armada of continental basketball. The magnificent European journey of the northern players ended in a rout. But it will not make us forget all the progress accomplished.
Villeneuve-d’Ascq holds less than a half
ESB Villeneuve-d’Ascq, finalist of the Women’s League (LFB) last season and current leader this year, actually held out for a little less than half-time against “Fener”. At the end of the first quarter, there was only one point difference (28-27) in favor of the Istanbul club. But, at the break, the Turks had taken a significant lead (58-45), helped by Yvonne Anderson’s three-point shot at the buzzer.
However, Fenerbahçe did not shine in the long-distance shooting exercise (4/14 over the entire match). But, at two points, the European champions were formidable in their skill with 34 successful shots out of 50 attempted. In the first period, Villeneuve-d’Ascq did not sink, being skillful on three-point shots (7/13). But, upon returning from the locker room, Rachid Meziane’s players collapsed.
Collier and Meesseman hurt the Northerners
Still behind at the end of the third quarter (77-61), they were then completely muzzled during the last ten minutes, only managing to score 12 points. Fenerbahçe’s lead continued to increase until the final buzzer. A real ordeal. The Northerners lost 20 balls, were dominated on rebounds (38 to 28) and were only able to deliver 17 assists.
The Americans Kennedy Burke and Shavonte Zellous were the most effective for Villeneuve-d’Ascq with 17 points each, followed by Janelle Salaun and Kamiah Smalls (12 pts). In the ranks of Fenerbahçe, coached by Valérie Garnier since this season, the American Napheesa Collier was monstrous with 33 points, well supported by the Belgian Emma Meesseman (22 pts including 18 in the first period).
The northern club now has a few days to forget this terrible defeat. But he will want to capitalize on his good European career to perhaps experience another great adventure in the LFB play-offs. Next Friday, Villeneuve-d’Ascq will play the quarter-final first leg in Angers, before hosting four days later.
2024-04-14 17:45:28
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