Grotzinger Stars as Reims Dominates Caen
Guillaume Grotzinger orchestrated a second-half demolition as Châlons-Reims overwhelmed Caen 99-75 at the Palais des Sports de Caen la mer. The visitors, holding a 10-point lead at halftime (34-44), blew the game open in the third quarter, outscoring their hosts 32-11 to enter the final period with an insurmountable 31-point advantage (45-76). Châlons-Reims operated with clinical efficiency, shooting 55% from the field (39/71) compared to Caen's 44%, while also enjoying a commanding 48-35 edge in bench scoring. Grotzinger spearheaded the charge with 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, complemented by Tidjan Keita's 12 points and 2 blocks off the bench. Despite double-digit scoring from Darel Poirier (10 points) and Karl-Randell Kouame-Zeze (12 points), Caen's offence faltered under the relentless pressure. This loss sees Caen remain mired in 18th place, while Châlons-Reims solidifies their 6th-place standing, positioning themselves strongly for the postseason.