Axel Julien, JDA Dijon remain determined despite slow start

DIJON (France) - Axel Julien and JDA Dijon are now 2-7, second from bottom of Group C, however, 6’0 guard Axel Julien believes the best is yet to come.

"We haven’t been having the campaign we wanted to have so far, that is true," an honest Julien commented.

"Having lost so many games is a bit disappointing for all of us, for the fans and for the team. We won the first game of the group stage, and we couldn’t keep the same dynamic. We need, and we are going to, put all the necessary efforts to bounce back and stop this losing streak.

"It’s frustrating to be in this kind of position, but we are good players and we are a good team, so we can achieve so and have good performances in the next games coming in the group stage’s campaign."



Despite their record, there have been some bright spots. They pushed Fuenlabrada to the edge, ultimately falling by two, in a game where Julien registered his season-best scoring output with 18 points.

"Losing a game like this leaves a bitter taste in the mouth, because you know that you could have won and beat one of the best teams of the competition," he reflected.

"We played at home, we had a great game but we came short, which was disappointing for all of us. It’s the kind of game were you get frustrated and where you watch and redo the game over and over in your mind. We learned from that game."

And it is, of course, all a learning experience that will only serve the players and team well in the long-term.

"We have a group of players that haven’t played a lot of games at international level, so we try to learn and gain experience as much as possible. Every game is a learning experience, playing in different countries, in different arenas, in front of crowds that live basketball with different kinds of passion.

"I really enjoy the experience this season, and whatever happens in the BCL for us this will be a very constructive and learning experience."

However, things aren’t going to get any easier for the French side - three of their next four games are on the road, and they are in a loaded Group C that features, amongst others, defending champions AEK Athens.

"Our group is very competitive, and we have some teams that can probably run for the title. There are no small teams in our group, each and everyone can qualify for the next round.

"When you play in the Basketball Champions League, you know that you have very good teams and players competing and we knew that the group stage would be very intense. We are gaining experience and we can turn things around."

The French national team guard, who has just helped his country qualify for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019, is third for JDA Dijon in efficiency, averaging a well rounded 8.6 points, 3 rebounds and 5.8 assists.

 
He is ready to spearhead the resurgence.

"We have to keep fighting no matter what," Julien concluded.

"We won’t ever give up and we want to show our best, our highest level for the next games and try to win the most games we can.

"We know it won’t be easy, we have some games away that are going to be very intense, but we are ready for the challenge. All of the teams can still make it to the next round, and every game starting now are going to be more and more important."