Aix-Maurienne produced a gritty home performance to defeat Metropolitans 92 85-78 in Ligue Nationale de Basket Pro B action on October 21, 2026. The hosts used a strong third quarter and a disciplined defensive effort to hold off a talented Metropolitans side that stayed within reach until the closing minutes.

The game was not a shootout, but it was intensely competitive. Aix-Maurienne controlled the paint, limited second-chance opportunities, and made enough timely shots to keep Metropolitans 92 from completing a late comeback. The win underlined the value of home-court advantage in a league known for tight margins.

Match overview

Aix-Maurienne led by three after the first quarter and took a narrow advantage into halftime. The hosts then created separation in the third period with a patient offensive approach and a series of important defensive stops. Metropolitans 92 fought back in the fourth but could not close the gap.

• Final score: Aix-Maurienne 85, Metropolitans 92 78
• Quarter scores: 22-19, 19-20, 24-18, 20-21
• Competition: Ligue Nationale de Basket Pro B
• Date: October 21, 2026

How the game turned

The third quarter was the decisive stretch. Aix-Maurienne opened the period with a 7-0 run, forcing Metropolitans 92 into a timeout. The hosts’ defense became more aggressive, trapping ball handlers on the perimeter and contesting every shot. Offensively, Aix-Maurienne moved the ball well and found open shooters in the corners.

Metropolitans 92 responded with a late push in the fourth, cutting the lead to five with under three minutes remaining. But Aix-Maurienne executed in the clutch, converting free throws and grabbing a crucial offensive rebound that led to a second-chance basket.

Tactical story

Aix-Maurienne’s half-court defense was the foundation of the win. The hosts protected the rim well and forced Metropolitans 92 into contested mid-range shots. They also controlled the defensive glass, limiting the visitors’ second-chance points. On offense, Aix-Maurienne attacked the paint early and then used that threat to generate open three-point looks.

Metropolitans 92 showed flashes of quality, particularly in transition, but struggled with consistency in the half court. The visitors had too many empty possessions in the third quarter and were forced to play catch-up for the rest of the night.

Standout performers

Aix-Maurienne’s frontcourt was instrumental, providing interior scoring and rebounding on both ends. The guards managed the game well down the stretch, making smart decisions and hitting key free throws. Metropolitans 92 received a strong effort from its perimeter players, but the team lacked the same balance inside.

Season impact

The victory gives Aix-Maurienne a valuable early-season win and reinforces its ability to defend home court against a strong opponent. For Metropolitans 92, the loss is a missed opportunity to build momentum on the road. The visitors will need to improve their half-court execution and rebounding if they are to challenge the top teams in Pro B.

Aix-Maurienne will take confidence from the defensive discipline shown in the third quarter, while Metropolitans 92 will focus on finding more consistent scoring options in the paint.