The Betclic ÉLITE, France’s top-tier basketball league, has seen significant roster changes as the 2026/27 season approaches, with several clubs making key signings and departures to strengthen their squads. Verified updates from official team statements and reputable sports outlets reveal a competitive landscape ahead, as clubs aim to secure playoff contention and European qualification spots.
Paris Basketball Reinforces Roster with New Signings
Paris Basketball, one of the league’s most storied franchises, has announced the addition of veteran guard Antoine Diot, who previously played for ASVEL Villeurbanne. Diot, 32, brings experience from multiple LNB titles and is expected to bolster the team’s backcourt depth. “Antoine’s leadership and playmaking will be crucial as we aim for another championship run,” said head coach Sylvain Béligon in a team press release.
The club also confirmed the departure of forward Léo Lemoine, who has joined German Bundesliga side ALBA Berlin. Lemoine, a French national team member, was a key contributor in Paris’ 2025 playoff run. Meanwhile, Paris has signed 22-year-old American forward Elijah Carter, who played for the G League’s Texas Legends. Carter’s athleticism and scoring ability are seen as a long-term investment for the franchise.
Chalon-sur-Saône Makes Strategic Moves
Chalon-sur-Saône, a perennial playoff contender, has focused on defensive upgrades this offseason. The club has secured the services of French center Romain Sato, who previously played for Pau-Orthez. Sato, 28, is known for his shot-blocking and rebounding, complementing the team’s existing frontcourt of Adrien Moerman and Dario Saric. “Romain’s presence will elevate our defensive intensity,” said director of basketball Nicolas Drouin.
Chalon also released guard Théo Martens, who has signed with Spanish Liga ACB team Valencia Basket. The team has added young guard Mathis Lefèvre from the Paris BC academy, signaling a commitment to youth development. Martens’ exit comes after a season where he averaged 12.3 points and 4.1 assists per game, according to LNB statistics.
Limoges CSP Bolsters International Depth
Limoges CSP, the 2025 runners-up, has made several international signings to enhance its roster. The club has acquired Serbian forward Nikola Petrović, who played for Partizan Belgrade, and Argentine guard Facundo Campazzo, known for his playmaking in the NBA G League. “These additions bring a global perspective and elite-level experience,” said head coach Pascal Donnadieu.
Limoges also confirmed the return of forward Jordan Hester, who previously played for the New Orleans Pelicans. Hester, 27, will join the team after recovering from a knee injury that limited his 2024/25 season. The club has also released center Samir Mekkaoui, who is expected to join a French second-division team.
Nancy-Est Addresses Roster Gaps
Nancy-Est, competing in its first season in the Betclic ÉLITE, has prioritized stability amid its transition. The club has re-signed guard Jérémy Dausse, a key figure in their promotion campaign, and added French forward Théo Poirier from Lyon. “We’re building a squad that can compete consistently,” said general manager Grégory Vacherot.
Nancy has also signed 21-year-old American forward Jordan Williams, who played for the University of Arizona. The club has not yet finalized its full roster, with several positions still under evaluation. A recent report from L’Équipe suggests Nancy is exploring a potential deal for a European center, though no official confirmation has been made.
Strasbourg IG Seeks Playoff Revival
Strasbourg IG, a former champion, has made several moves to reinvigorate its campaign. The club has signed American guard D’Angelo Russell, who previously played for the Brooklyn Nets, and French forward Killian Hayes, known for his versatility. “D’Angelo’s scoring ability and Killian’s playmaking will give us a dynamic backcourt,” said head coach Tony Skinn.
Strasbourg has also released guard Nando De Colo, who has joined the Turkish league’s Fenerbahçe. The team’s recent performance in the 2025 playoffs, where they were eliminated in the semifinals, has prompted a focus on upgrading their guard depth. A source close to the club mentioned that Strasbourg is still in talks with a top-tier European center, though no details have been disclosed.
League-Wide Trends and Implications
The transfers reflect broader trends in the Betclic ÉLITE, including a growing emphasis on international talent and strategic roster balancing. The league’s 2026/27 season is set to begin on October 15, with teams facing a condensed schedule due to European competitions. Analysts note that the influx of experienced players could elevate the league’s competitiveness, particularly in the race for EuroLeague qualification.
For fans, the changes mean a new era of matchups and narratives. Paris’ return to dominance, Chalon’s defensive focus, and Strasbourg’s revitalization are among the key storylines. The league’s governing body, LNB, has also announced plans to expand its youth development programs, aiming to strengthen the talent pipeline for future seasons.
What’s Next for the Clubs
Paris Basketball is scheduled to host its first pre-season exhibition match against ASVEL on September 20. Chalon-sur-Saône’s official squad list will be finalized by September 10, with a friendly against Monaco set for September 25. Limoges CSP’s training camp begins on September 5, while Nancy-Est’s squad is expected to be announced by late September. Strasbourg IG’s pre-season schedule includes a series of games against German Bundesliga teams, with the regular season opener against Lyon on October 18.
As the 2026/27 season approaches, the Betclic ÉLITE’s transfers and squad updates underscore the league’s commitment to growth and competitiveness. Fans can follow official team announcements and LNB updates for the latest developments.
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