Sports in Paris (Part 1 of 3)

We enjoy attending sporting events wherever we are.  During Year 4 in Paris, we have attended several different sporting events.  You already saw our post about about attending some Women's World Cup Soccer games.  We have also attended matches in three other sports.  

First up, basketball.  Paris is home to two professional basketball teams.  We attended two home games of "Paris Basketball," which plays in the second tier of the French basketball league.  

The games are held in an arena in the 13th arrondissement, in a economically challenged part of the city.  The arena is a bit larger than a high school gymnasium and was only about a third full each time we attended.

Despite the relatively small size of the arena, the crowd was loud, the game was fast-paced and we enjoyed the experience.  Marie-Chantal, like Jean-Claude, is a long-time basketball fan.  So, she was happy to see a sport she loves played well.  The teams are mix of French and foreign players, including some from elsewhere in Europe, from the U.S. and even Australia.    

The games we saw included all of the usual theatrics of an NBA game in the U.S.--dramatic lighting, energetic music, player introductions and half-time events.

During one halftime, we were treated to a fashion show of a Parisian designer's African-inspired apparel. 

The fans for both teams cheered loudly throughout the game.

One out of the ordinary feature was the drum section, a group of fans who yelled and beat drums non-stop throughout the game, adding to the excitement of the event.  Non-stop!

The game action was always high-speed--fast breaks, quick shots and tenacious defense, from the opening tip to the last shot and every play in between.

The Paris team won both of the games that we attended, which makes for a happy time for hometown fans like us.  

Thanks for joining us to watch Paris Basketball.  The selfie above proves we had a good time.  It also proves we are bad at selfies.

Next Up:  Hockey sur glace