The 6th Laure Ecard International U18 Women’s Basketball Tournament concluded last night with Slovenia topping the standings and France defeating Russia in the closing match. Although the quality of play and smiles were present, the suffocating heat in the venue somewhat dampened the spectators’ enthusiasm.
The match between France and Russia is about to start, but the stands are not filled as usual. Only the central stand is occupied by supporters, overcome by an oppressive heat. This slight attendance is due to the high temperature, according to Patrice Bousseau, 33 years old. Present every year at the tournament, this regular attendee is volunteering for the first time. “A great opportunity to make a contribution,” he explains. During the match, he seems to be the only one cheering on the young players. While the spectators waved tricolor flags at the beginning, fans and piles of paper were quickly favored in the search for air. “Don’t they know about air conditioning here?” one can hear.
A lethargy far from affecting “Dédé.” “Come on, Les Bleus!”, “Defense!” At 70 years old, this passionate supporter, drenched in sweat, spares no effort, standing next to the drum trying to liven up the match. Close to the Ecard family, he also comes for Laure: “She had such potential… I hold her in my heart.” He speaks of an incredible “passion” and a “duty” as justification for his presence and delights in the “very beautiful tournament this year.”
We often receive letters of congratulations
On the court, the young French players struggle to distance themselves from their opponents. The Russians take the lead several times after the first quarter, but the Tricolores manage their difficulties (weak phases, momentary shooting failures) to finally win 66-64. A much more dynamic and committed match than usual. Norbert Sahakian, President of the Union of Nice Basketball Societies (USNBB), highlights the presence of the U18 teams instead of the U15 to explain “the level being a notch higher today.” The USNBB includes all the clubs in Nice and their members for organizing the tournament: volunteers, referees, and officials all contribute to the event. “It’s a way to honor Laure,” says Mr. Sahakian, proud that this competition can “prepare the French team.” He particularly emphasizes “the letters of congratulations” from the teams, all thrilled and eager to return.
The only downside, according to him, is “the heatwave, which is certainly the reason for the fewer people in the stands.” The stands come alive during the closing ceremony, with applause for the Slovenians, French, Croats, and Russians, ranked in that order. Each group of players poses, all smiles, with Laure’s parents, Sylvie and Jean-François, and their little Johanna. The little girl amuses some of them when she runs to retrieve the French flag she had dropped for the photo. Norbert Sahakian, emotionally, speaks of an evening “in memory of Laure” and is already setting an appointment for next year.
