Stade Rochelais Basket delivered a commanding performance to overcome Orléans and strengthen its position in the race for the play-in spots, overcoming a 12-point deficit in the third quarter to secure a vital victory on Tuesday night at Gaston-Neveur.
The turning point came when Robert Ford III sparked a decisive rally with his signature move, using a spin maneuver to evade two defenders before finding Ismael Sanchéz for an effortless layup. The American combo guard had been effective early, contributing eight points, five rebounds and two assists in the opening quarter while setting the tempo for Rochelais’ offensive rhythm.
Orléans had built momentum early, scoring 13 points in just three minutes to take control. Kuta dominated inside with physical play in the paint, but Rochelais responded with increased defensive intensity and relentless rebounding efforts led by Mbye, whose contested plays energized the team.
The game remained tightly contested, with 16 lead changes in the first 20 minutes alone, reflecting the back-and-forth nature of the matchup. At the 17-minute mark, the score was tied at 33-33 as both teams settled into a defensive battle, each recognizing the importance of the contest for their respective playoff aspirations.
Ford III continued to influence the game with penetrating drives that disrupted Orléans’ defensive structure, while Maxence Lemoine provided steady support off the bench without altering the team’s established approach. The collective effort highlighted Rochelais’ resilience and tactical discipline under pressure.
The victory represents a significant step forward for Stade Rochelais in their pursuit of a play-in berth, particularly given Orléans’ standing as a top-five team in the league. For the Rochelais bench, the win carried added significance: Lucas Foncel, who developed through Orléans’ youth system, and Germain Castano, former head coach of Orléans from 2017 to 2024, both have deep personal connections to the opposing franchise.
This result adds to Rochelais’ growing momentum, building on recent performances that have showcased their ability to compete with elite opposition. The team’s depth and adaptability were evident as multiple players contributed to the comeback effort, reinforcing their credentials as a formidable contender in the latter stages of the season.
Looking ahead, Stade Rochelais will aim to maintain this level of consistency in their upcoming fixtures, knowing that each victory improves their standing in the highly competitive race for postseason qualification. The focus now shifts to sustaining the defensive intensity and offensive execution that proved decisive against Orléans.
For continued updates on Stade Rochelais Basket and their journey toward the play-in tournament, fans are encouraged to follow official club channels and verified sports platforms for the latest news, schedules and analysis.
