Despite notable performances from Armel Traoré, who scored 16 points, and Thomas Heurtel, who contributed 13 points and 10 assists, ASVEL failed to secure a victory during their trip to Bavaria. The French team had held a promising 39-42 lead at halftime against Bayern, but their efforts were ultimately not enough to maintain their advantage.
Bayern’s coach, Svetislav Pesic, highlighted his team’s patient and “complete” game, particularly their ability to win the crucial third quarter, which he described as a vital “new start.” Key contributors for Bayern included Justinian Jessup, who led with 19 points and 6 rebounds, Andreas Obst with 15 points, and David McCormak adding 13 points and 8 rebounds.
On ASVEL’s side, coach Pierric Poupet acknowledged that his team “played well for 33 or 34 minutes.” However, he expressed regret over the significant impact of losing Bastien Vautier late in the game due to a quadriceps injury. Despite the defeat against a superior team, Poupet praised his players’ fighting spirit and identified positive aspects from their performance that they can build upon.
With only four matches remaining in the Euroleague season, ASVEL faces a challenging task to avoid finishing in the last position.
