The Bourges “Tango” team found themselves stifled by the formidable defense of Julie Barennes’ players, epitomized by the agile Laïa Lacan. Lacan, living up to her MVP title, not only scored 20 points but also achieved 4 steals and demonstrated relentless effort on every play.
Despite a spirited finish from Bourges, highlighted by Maëva Djaldi-Tabdi’s 14 rebounds, the team struggled in game construction, managing only 6 assists compared to Basket Landes’ 15. Their dismal 4/24 three-point shooting further contributed to their defeat.
Leïla Lacan opened the scoring with a three-pointer on the first possession, and Basket Landes established a solid defense, leading 8-4. Bourges, however, responded with aggressive play and free throws, leading to a back-and-forth exchange. The first quarter concluded with a narrow lead for Basket Landes, 17-16, after an intense period.
As is common in such high-stakes games, defense overshadowed offense, with a prolonged scoreless period of 2 minutes and 20 seconds. The scoring remained low, with only 4 points in the first five minutes and 6 in the next five of the second quarter, resulting in a 27-27 tie at halftime. Both teams exhibited poor shooting percentages: Bourges at 28% (2/12 from three-point range and two airballs from Laëtitia Guapo), and Basket Landes at 30%. Leïla Lacan and Myriam Djekoundade were the top scorers with 7 points each, while Maëva Djaldi-Tabdi had already secured 8 rebounds.
The partnership of Leïla Lacan, a defensive menace, and Marjunatu Musa, who found her offensive rhythm, propelled Basket Landes to a 35-27 lead. This eight-point advantage was a significant development. Although six consecutive points from Laétitia Guapo briefly brought Bourges back into contention, Basket Landes regained momentum, extending their lead to 44-34. Notably, it took Bourges over seven minutes in the third quarter for a player other than Guapo to score. Basket Landes demonstrated superior energy, culminating in a buzzer-beating shot by Marie Pardon, to end the third quarter leading 47-36.
A three-pointer from Leïla Lacan, followed by two successful free throws, and a mid-range basket by Marjunatu Musa, stretched Basket Landes’ lead to 17 points (56-39). Bourges continued to miss crucial shots, including open looks, hindering their ability to compete. While Basket Landes eased up in the final minutes, it was too late for Bourges to overcome the deficit. However, their late surge offers hope for the decisive Game 3.
The deciding game will take place in Mont-de-Marsan on Sunday, May 17th, at 7 PM.