Melvin Ajinça Joins Le Mans from ASVEL

Le Mans Sarthe Basket (MSB) has largely finalized its roster for the 2026-2027 season with the signing of 22-year-old Melvin Ajinça (2.03m) from ASVEL. Despite his youth, the French forward possesses considerable experience and is expected to play a significant role for the team.

Ajinça, cousin of Alexis Ajinça, is about to begin his fifth professional season and his third in a top-tier continental competition. He first gained prominence at Saint-Quentin, where he was named the best young player in Pro B. The 2023 U19 World Cup runner-up was even drafted into the NBA at pick 51 in 2024.

His performances in the Euroleague with Villeurbanne have been notable, averaging 6.8 points and 2 rebounds in 19 minutes per game across all competitions. Now, he moves to MSB, where he will be given expanded responsibilities under the guidance of coach Guillaume Vizade.

Coach Vizade expressed his enthusiasm: "We are very happy to see another young French player join our project. With significant professional experience since leaving INSEP, Melvin will bring us his shooting ability at the small forward position, his physical presence, particularly in attacking the basket and on the boards. An exemplary player with a commendable attitude recognized by all his former coaches and teammates, he completes our backcourt and helps our team take shape."

Ajinça's versatility, capable of playing multiple positions, along with his modern game combining adaptability and mobility, will be valuable. His technical and athletic qualities, coupled with his activity on both ends of the court, should facilitate his integration into Le Mans' game plan.

With this acquisition, MSB now has 10 professional players under contract for the 2026-2027 season: Melvin Ajinça, Léopold Delaunay, Ugo Doumbia Niang, Lucas Dufeal, Bastien Grasshoff, Jordan King, Swann Penda, Carlos Stewart, TaShawn Thomas, and Wilfried Yeguete.