Elric Delord believes in Chalon before hosting Cholet: « Our team doesn’t belong at the bottom of the standings »

Appointed in early December replacing Savo Vucevic, Elric Delord continues to build and refine his project with Élan Chalon. Despite a recent heavy defeat at ASVEL, the former Le Mans coach believes in his group’s upward trajectory. On the eve of an intense season ending marked by hosting Cholet this Saturday at the Colisée, he displays a clear-headed yet ambitious outlook.

« We’ve shown that this team doesn’t belong at the bottom of the standings »

After a logical defeat at Astroballe against a red-hot ASVEL (LNB three-point record), Elric Delord refuses to hide behind excuses. « They had an exceptional shooting night. But at the same time, aren’t we missing certain things? » he acknowledges, while noting a trend: difficulties against top-tier Betclic ELITE teams.

But the coach remains pragmatic and already sees the fruits of their work. « There are improvements, it’s not enough yet, but we’ve been working on it for some time now. »

Safety nearly secured and ambitions revised upward

« When I arrived here, the goal was survival, » he recalls. Today, thanks to important victories against Limoges, La Rochelle, and Le Portel, Chalon is practically safe with seven games remaining. A luxury considering December’s situation.

Now, eyes turn upward: play-in, maybe playoffs. « We’ll know soon enough, » explains Delord, who expects a response from his men against remaining opponents: Cholet this weekend, then Nancy, Paris, Nanterre, Strasbourg, Gravelines, and Monaco.

Cholet as a progress indicator

Before thinking about the play-in, a massive challenge awaits Chalon: hosting Cholet, championship co-leader. Elric Delord emphasizes staying true to their principles: « Consistency in results comes from consistency in preparation, regardless of the opponent. »

He wants his players to approach the game with « determination, » without any complex: « We shouldn’t come as victims… The idea is to play, take the bull by the horns, face them eye to eye. »

Progress slowed but visible

Since his arrival, Elric Delord sees consistent improvement, despite some setbacks due to injuries and a reduced roster. « We’re progressing together, playing well together. We’re pleasant to watch. »

He points out frustrating moments that can still weigh on the team, particularly regarding refereeing or opponent behavior. But the message remains positive: « I’m especially interested in this season’s end to see how far we can go. »

Injury update

Center Olivier Cortale (2.07m, 28 years) is sidelined. With a hand fracture, he’ll miss several weeks. « He should return before the season ends, but won’t be available at least until the Strasbourg game. »