Paris Basketball lifted its first trophy on September 25 2024 by beating Nanterre 90-85 in the Leaders Cup final. The last result for Paris Basketball was a 85-79 loss to Zalgiris Kaunas on April 17 2026, and over its last five games the club records 2 wins and 3 defeats (LLWWL), with two consecutive losses.
How did the final unfold?
The game opened under palpable tension, both sides swapping baskets from the first quarter. Nanterre led 22-18 after the opening period thanks to a burst of three‑point shooting. Paris answered in the second quarter with strong rim protection and offensive rebounds, narrowing the gap to 45-44 at halftime. In the third quarter, T.J. Shorts took over, scoring 12 transition points while Nanterre’s Justin Bibbins added 10 to keep the contest close. The final quarter turned into a grind; Shorts’ clutch play and two free throws by Nadir Hifi gave Paris an 83-82 edge, and the defense held the lead to the final buzzer.
Who were the heroes?
MVP of the night, T.J. Shorts, exploded for 26 points, including eight in the decisive stretch, and handed out five assists. Justin Bibbins, despite his 20 points, could not stop Nanterre’s collapse. Coach Tuomas Iisalo switched to a pick‑and‑roll scheme at the 34‑minute mark, freeing Shorts for quick drives. Veteran Bienvenu Kindoki, with the club since 2018, called the title “a very beautiful step” for the Paris project. Operations director Amara Sy highlighted the family synergy with new signing Bandja Sy as a future asset.
What lies ahead for Paris Basketball?
The victory propels Paris Basketball into the Betclic Élite top four, thanks to the successful merger with the “Paris BasketBonn” initiative. The roster already includes six players from the German champion club of the 2023 EuroLeague, providing depth. Coach Iisalo stated the team now targets playoff berths and, in the longer term, an LNB championship. President David Kahn, who followed the competition from Indianapolis, confirmed that the mental resilience built during the Leaders Cup will be vital for upcoming challenges. The next Betclic Élite quarter‑final will be crucial to cement this momentum and chase more trophies.