Poitiers edges Aix-Maurienne in tight road victory
Poitiers snatched a crucial 81-79 victory on the road against Aix-Maurienne, sealing their win in the dying seconds at Halle Marlioz. The fiercely contested game saw both teams trade blows, with the score deadlocked at 39-39 at halftime. Poitiers edged ahead entering the final period, holding a slim 67-66 lead, and managed to maintain their advantage until the final buzzer.
The visitors' bench proved decisive, pouring in 44 points compared to Aix-Maurienne's 16. Poitiers also showcased potent three-point shooting, converting 9 of 22 attempts (41%) against Aix-Maurienne's 24%. Despite Sean Smith's all-around effort for Aix-Maurienne with 9 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists, and Kamel Ammour leading all scorers with 21 points, Poitiers' consistent offensive contributions, spearheaded by Marcus Gomis' 18 points and Marcus Hammond's 16 points, ultimately secured the win. Narcisse Ngoy also made a significant impact with 14 rebounds and 3 steals.
This win elevates Poitiers to tenth place in the Leaders Cup standings, while Aix-Maurienne remains fifteenth.