The moment of truth has arrived. After several weeks of intense playoffs, Pau-Lacq-Orthez and Poitiers meet in the Accession Final to the Betclic ÉLITE with a single goal: to secure the last ticket to the elite of French basketball.
The Palais des Sports in Pau will be sold out for Game 1, while the Futuroscope Arena will also be at full capacity for Game 2. Nearly 13,500 spectators are expected for the first two games, a testament to the exceptional enthusiasm sparked by this matchup between two strongholds of French basketball. On the court, this final will pit two teams with distinct identities against each other. Pau-Lacq-Orthez relies on its experience, collective mastery, and ambition to return to the Betclic ÉLITE. Opposite,Poitierscontinues its remarkable journey driven by a combative group that has managed to gain momentum throughout the season.
At the heart of this confrontation, a duel could well tip the series: the one between Thomas Cornely and Marcus Gomis. A true metronome for Pau-Lacq-Orthez, Thomas Cornely is one of the key architects of the Béarn team's season. Best passer of ÉLITE 2, the former Gravelines-Dunkerque player sets the pace for the Pau team thanks to his vision, situational awareness, and leadership. In decisive moments, his ability to organize the team and find the right solutions often makes the difference. Facing him, Marcus Gomis embodies the energy and aggressiveness of Poitiers. Already valuable during the regular season, the Poitiers point guard has further raised his level during the playoffs, increasing his average from 12.2 to 13.8 points. Capable of catching fire offensively and turning a game around with his initiatives, he has established himself as one of his team's main X-factors.
Beyond the duel between the two leaders, this final will pit two teams against each other that have demonstrated throughout the year their ability to rise to the occasion in major events. Every possession, every tactical adjustment, and every detail could weigh heavily in the balance.
In an atmosphere that promises to be electric in Pau as well as in Poitiers, all the ingredients are in place to deliver a spectacular final. Between experience, ambition, and popular fervor, ELITE 2 is gearing up for its conclusion.
Match 1: Friday, June 13 – Palais des Sports de Pau
Match 2: Monday, June 16 – Arena Futuroscope
Match 3*: Thursday, June 18 - Palais des Sports de Pau
One series, two clubs, one ticket to the Betclic ÉLITE.
