Avignon/Le Pontet secured a vital victory in the regional derby against Rognonas, maintaining their momentum in the Nationale 2 masculine standings.
The win arrives as the club plays a season defined by high expectations and the pressure of a recent relegation from Nationale 1.
For veteran guard Willis Castard, the current campaign represents a new perspective. After arriving at the club for the 2025-2026 season, the 31-year-old acknowledged that the transition from a top-tier environment to a battle for position has been mentally demanding. Before joining the squad, Castard completed three seasons in the upper echelon of the standings with Beaujolais and previously played for Sorgues during the 2021-2022 season.
He returned to the Vaucluse region with the intention of contending for the top spots in Nationale 2, though the team’s recent relegation changed the trajectory of the project. “Since I’ve been playing basketball, it’s the first time I’ve played for survival,” Castard told La Provence. “When you’re in that configuration, it’s heavy because you have that sword of Damocles over your head every time.”
Despite the personal challenges of the previous season, Castard remains a focal point for the team. Manager general Thierry Bernard highlighted the guard’s resilience, even while joking about his personality within the group.
“Je vous laisse avec le clown du groupe,” said Thierry Bernard. Following the difficult experience of the 2025-2026 term, Castard said that the team now approaches each match with a singular focus, avoiding long-term projections to stay grounded, as reported by La Provence.
The squad now focuses on an upcoming road encounter. On Saturday, November 7, Avignon/Le Pontet is scheduled to face Agde Basket at the Palais des Sports at 20:00.
The matchup is viewed as a critical juncture in the race for second place, with both teams eager to consolidate their standing in the league, according to L’AGATHOIS. The contest matters for the remainder of the season, and the home side aims to use their home-court advantage to secure a victory.
The Agde venue expects a large turnout for the tip-off. The home side has framed the game as a marquee event, requiring high defensive intensity and collective engagement from the squad. Admission is set at 5 euros, which includes a complimentary drink, while entry remains free for club members, as stated by L’AGATHOIS.
- NBA Schedule: Heat Face Pistons as Pelicans Risk High-Scoring Nuggets Game
- Elan Chalon Beats Boulazac 97-74 to Claim Fifth Betclic Elite Win
- Alabama State Beats Alcorn State as Saiki Reaches 500-Assist Mark (bytewire.news)
- Wales beats New Zealand for first time since 1953 in historic upset (newsarchyuk.com)
