Operating as an assistant coach to Tony Parker for the current season, Collet stepped into the head coaching role for the evening because Parker was in the Philippines fulfilling obligations with the NBA.
An Uncertain Summer and Commitment to the Project
The game marked a notable milestone following an offseason of reflection for the former France national team coach. Collet admitted to Le Progrès that he questioned his future at Villeurbanne after encountering hurdles within the club’s setup. When asked if he considered leaving, he told journalist Luc Paganon, “Pas beaucoup, mais quand même un peu. Parce que je connais le niveau de l’EuroLeague et les difficultés à disputer cette compétition quand vous n’êtes pas armés. Le coup d’arrêt a quand même été difficile à encaisser.”
Despite those doubts, Collet remains tied to the Villeurbanne project, emphasizing the need for perseverance. “Il va falloir se battre, lutter pour lui donner vie. Il faut être courageux et y croire,” he stated. When questioned about ASVEL’s specific ambitions in the EuroLeague, Collet declined to set targets, noting to Le Progrès, “Ce n’est pas à moi de me prononcer. Je suis assistant coach. Et ce n’est pas un roster qui fait une équipe.”
Stepping Back on the Bench Against Saint-Chamond
Managing the team on Friday offered Collet a chance to reconnect with direct on-court coaching, an experience he embraced as the contest tightened. “C’était du plaisir. Je me suis régalé,” he told Le Progrès. He noted that his competitive drive took over as the margin narrowed to just two points. “Oui, parce qu’on se prend au jeu. Je le répète, ce n’est pas un vrai plaisir,” he added.
The assignment carried historical weight for the veteran coach, who recalled his brief stint with ASVEL during the 2010–2011 season that ended after only a month and a half. “Être évincé au bout d’un mois et demi était quand même un peu particulier…” he reflected.
Youth Outing Sets Up Upcoming Full-Roster Tests
ASVEL took the floor against SCABB with a heavily depleted roster featuring only five professional players alongside a complement of young prospects and ten absent players.
Collet credited the youthful additions for securing the tight win, stating, “Si nous avons réussi à nous en sortir, c’est principalement grâce à eux.” The squad is expected to return closer to full strength for upcoming preseason fixtures in Roanne against the Chorale and Élan béarnais, matches that will provide a clearer look at ASVEL’s roster shape.
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