Le Mans put an end to a heavy series of six defeats by winning Friday night in Nanterre (75-84). Elric Delord’s men benefited from the savvy return of international Terry Tarpey, MVP of the game (18 points, 9 rebounds).
It’s a nice early Christmas present that Terry Tarpey offered to his partners in the team. While he was supposed to resume during the next game against Nancy, the MSB captain – absent since October 15, 2022 due to a fractured hand – made a fiery comeback at the Palais des Sports in Nanterre this Friday night.
Propelled in the major five, the European vice-champion carried his team by compiling 18 points at 6/10 shooting including 3/4 at 3-points and 3/3 at free throws, 9 rebounds including 2 offensive, 1 pass and 2 steals for 22 of evaluation – the best of the game – in 23 minutes.
“The best defender in the league has corrected the team’s imbalance problems” – Elric Delord (Le Mans coach)
Le Mans was already leading by 15 units after 10 minutes (12-27). When Nanterre tried to close the gap (72-77, 37th), it was obviously the MSB captain who made the saving steal followed by the basket that ensured the victory on the counter-attack. Call it the Terry Tarpey effect.
“It was not a bluff for Terry,” said Elric Delord in a statement reported by Le Maine Libre. He had to come back against Blois in January. However, he is an extremely serious and determined boy. He did everything to play again as soon as possible, like exercises with his injured hand. The medical staff did a good job. Terry wanted to play and not to see his team lose anymore. The boss came back and the best defender in the league corrected the team’s imbalance problems. Even when Nanterre came back, the group did not tremble and showed that it had heart and ambition. Lemar and Baptiste did not play a minute. With me, there is nothing written in stone, but it is certain that they will now have to go for their place because we will tighten the back lines.”
Photo : Terry Tarpey (LNB)
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