FRA - French League round-up

Le Mans remain on top despite shock home loss

LE MANS (LNB PRO A) - Le Mans conceded a 19-0 run late in the final quarter as Poitiers surprisingly beat them 81-71 on their home court.

The hosts were up 64-55 midway through the final frame but the visitors then reeled off 19 unanswered points to record an important result in their quest for a playoff spot.

American guard Tommy Gunn had nine of his 19 points during the furious run. Kenny Younger had 19 of his own to go along with nine rebounds.

Marc Salyers was the game's high-scorer with 20 points for Le Mans.

Second place Cholet also suffered a surprising defeat at home - just their second of the season - as they fell to BCM Gravelines 73-72.

The visitors were playing from behind throughout and had latest addition Juby Johnson to thank for the surprise result as he buried the game-winning three-pointer in the closing seconds. Cholet had a last chance but Sammy Mejia's shot was blocked by JK Edwards.

Big man Cyril Akpomedah recorded a double-double of 23 points and 10 rebounds in the winning cause.

Meanwhile, Sluc Nancy edged out Asvel Basket 74-71 for their fourth win in a row that saw them climb into a share of third place.

The game went down to the wire with hosts Asvel getting within one, 70-69, on Rawle Marshall's three-pointer late on.

However, Steed Tchicamboud and Ricardo Greer made a pair of free-throws each in the final minute to secure the result.

Ali Traore set a new career high with 34 points for Asvel, but it wasn't enough as they stumbled to 9-13 on the season and saw their playoff hopes take a hit.

Marcus Slaughter led a balanced offense for Nancy with 20 points to go along with six rebounds. Greer had a nice all-around game with 15 points, seven assists and six boards.



FIBA