Le Mans Sarthe Basket announced on July 8 2026 the signing of Melvin Ajinca, a 22‑year‑old wing who was selected 51st in the 2024 NBA draft and came from ASVEL. The club is counting on his three‑point shooting and physicality to shore up the perimeter.
Who is Melvin Ajinca?
Born in Villeneuve‑Saint‑Georges, Ajinca turned professional in the summer of 2022 with Saint‑Quentin. He helped the team earn promotion to Pro A and was named the best young player in Pro B. In 2023 he wore the French U19 jersey, winning a silver medal at the World Cup in Hungary while averaging 19.3 points.
NBA draft and EuroLeague stint
After a Betclic Élite season averaging 9.8 points and 3.3 rebounds in 24 minutes, he was drafted by the New York Knicks in 2024. Instead of heading to the NBA, he signed with Tony Parker’s ASVEL for the 2024‑2025 campaign. In the 2025‑2026 season he logged 19 minutes per game, posting 6.8 points and 2 rebounds, including a 17‑point outburst against Olympiakos in April.
Why is the transfer decisive for Le Mans?
Coach Guillaume Vizade notes Ajinca’s INSEP background and EuroLeague experience add real value. "His shooting from the three‑point line, his physical presence in the paint and his rebounding are exactly what we needed," Vizade said. The club expects him to stretch defenses and create space for interior players.
What are the next challenges?
Ajinca said he is eager to discover the MSB environment and help the team reach its goals. The Betclic Élite schedule kicks off in September, featuring matchups against powerhouses like Monaco and Strasbourg. The Tangos hope his three‑point accuracy, already 38 % last season, will secure a playoff berth.
Expected impact for the 2026‑2027 season
With Ajinca, Le Mans bolsters its wing corps, already featuring Antoine Eito and Thomas Heurtel. His international experience and NBA‑draft mindset should inject new energy, especially in crucial third‑quarter stretches. Fans are already anticipating him surpassing 10 points per game early in the campaign.