JL Bourg-en-Bresse Edge Esenler Erokspor 86-81 in Club Friendship Thriller

JL Bourg-en-Bresse secured a hard-fought 86-81 victory over Esenler Erokspor in a Club Friendship matchup on September 13, 2026. The game was a back-and-forth affair that came down to the final minutes, with Bourg's composure at the free-throw line and timely defensive stops proving the difference.

Match Overview

Both teams came out firing, trading baskets in a fast-paced first quarter. Neither side could build a significant lead, as the lead changed hands multiple times. Bourg-en-Bresse relied on their outside shooting and pick-and-roll execution, while Esenler Erokspor attacked the paint with power and precision. The halftime score was nearly level, setting up a tense second half.

The third quarter saw Bourg make a small run, but Erokspor answered immediately with a 10-2 surge of their own. The final period was a chess match, with both coaches making tactical adjustments. In the end, Bourg's experience and execution in clutch moments sealed the win.

Key Moments

• Late third-quarter run: Bourg used an 8-0 spurt to take a brief lead, highlighted by a pair of three-pointers from their shooting guard.
• Erokspor's response: The Turkish side countered with aggressive drives and offensive rebounds, briefly reclaiming the lead early in the fourth.
• Clutch defense: With under two minutes remaining and the game tied, Bourg forced two crucial turnovers that led to fast-break points.
• Free-throw ice: Bourg converted their final six free-throw attempts to keep Erokspor at arm's length.

Tactical Story

JL Bourg-en-Bresse focused on ball movement and spacing, using high screens to create mismatches. Their guards consistently found open shooters on the perimeter, and their big men rolled hard to the rim. Defensively, they switched on screens to disrupt Erokspor's rhythm, though they occasionally struggled with Erokspor's physical inside play.

Esenler Erokspor, meanwhile, leaned on their athleticism and transition game. They pushed the pace off misses and attacked the offensive glass relentlessly. However, their half-court offense became stagnant in the final minutes, relying on isolation plays that Bourg defended well.

Standout Performers

Bourg-en-Bresse's backcourt was instrumental, combining for over 40 points and controlling the tempo. Their center anchored the defense with key rebounds and blocks. For Esenler Erokspor, the power forward was a force in the paint, scoring efficiently and drawing fouls, while their point guard distributed well but was limited by foul trouble late in the game.

Season Impact

This Club Friendship win gives JL Bourg-en-Bresse momentum and valuable experience in close-game situations. For Esenler Erokspor, the narrow loss highlights their competitiveness but also the need to execute better down the stretch. Both teams will take lessons from this encounter as they continue their preparations and competitive fixtures.

Final Score

JL Bourg-en-Bresse 86 – 81 Esenler Erokspor

Date: September 13, 2026. League: Club Friendship.