Cholet edge Saint Quentin 81-75 in LNB Pro A road battle

Cholet came away with an 81-75 victory at Saint Quentin in the Ligue Nationale de Basket Pro A, closing the game with a decisive fourth-quarter run to secure an important road win. The final score was tight, but Cholet’s composure in the closing minutes and their ability to execute in half-court situations made the difference in a contest that remained competitive throughout.

Saint Quentin stayed within striking distance for three quarters, using home energy and timely shooting to keep the game close. Cholet led by two at halftime and by one entering the fourth, but they saved their best basketball for the final ten minutes, outscoring the hosts 24-19 to pull away.

Match overview

The first half was a back-and-forth affair, with neither team able to build a significant lead. Saint Quentin’s offense found some success attacking the paint, while Cholet countered with patient ball movement and timely three-point shooting. The third quarter followed a similar pattern, setting up a tense final period.

Key moments

• Cholet closed the third quarter with a small burst to take a one-point lead into the final period.
• A 9-2 run early in the fourth quarter gave Cholet the largest lead of the second half and forced Saint Quentin to chase.
• Saint Quentin cut the deficit to three with under two minutes remaining, but Cholet answered with a composed possession and two crucial defensive stops.
• Cholet’s free-throw shooting in the final 30 seconds protected the win.

Tactical story

Cholet’s half-court execution was the standout feature of the game. The visitors used screens effectively to create mismatches, attacked closeouts with patience, and made the extra pass when Saint Quentin’s defense rotated. Defensively, Cholet tightened up in the fourth quarter, contesting shots and limiting second-chance points.

Saint Quentin had stretches of strong play, particularly when they pushed the pace and attacked the rim. However, costly turnovers and a few empty possessions in the final five minutes allowed Cholet to seize control. In a game that was decided by execution, Cholet’s poise under pressure proved to be the difference.

Standout performers

Cholet’s guard play was central to the win, with composed decision-making and timely scoring in the closing minutes. The bench also contributed important minutes, helping the visitors maintain energy on the road. Saint Quentin received solid production from their interior players, but the hosts lacked the same late-game efficiency.

What the result means

The win gives Cholet valuable momentum in the LNB Pro A standings and reinforces their ability to win close games away from home. For Saint Quentin, the loss is a frustrating one, as they stayed competitive for long stretches but could not finish. Both teams will take lessons from a game that highlighted the importance of late-game execution in France’s top basketball league.