'I'm trying to learn the culture, there's a lot of expectations': BLMA veteran fullback Jasmine Bailey slowly adapts

L’arrière Jasmine Bailey veut décrocher au moins un titre avec le BLMA cette saison. Midi Libre – JEAN MICHEL MART

L’Américaine Jasmine Bailey et ses partenaires défient Lyon, ce samedi (20 h), pour le compte de la 14e journée de Ligue féminine.

She is now a regular in the championship. Present since 2018 in France, Jasmine Bailey is no longer discovering the Women's League. After seasons at Roche Vendée (2018-20), Saint-Amand (2020-21) and Angers (2021-24), the American fullback signed with the BLMA during the off-season to take a new step. No more mid-table, Bailey wants to win at least one trophy this season in the south of France, whether it be the championship or the Eurocup. “We have been through ups and downs but we have the team to win both”, believes the Latto-Montpellier.

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The team's recent poor form does not affect the confidence of the player who played in the Italian championship (2013-18). “We still have trouble playing when things get tough. We have to learn to overcome this hurdle. We're going to fight to get there.” Fighting is truly the credo of the 34-year-old American. “I'm a fighter on the field. If I defend well, everything else follows.”

An easy adaptation

With an average of 25 minutes of playing time, the fullback immediately became a key member of the team with a rather simple integration. “A lot of people welcomed me. I'm trying to learn the culture, it's different from Angers. There are a lot of expectations”, says Jasmine Bailey, all smiles. And it shows on the court. With an average of 8.7 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, the Saint-Louis native matches the style of play proposed by her coach Valery Demory. “The game he wanted this season attracted me. I like this new challenge.” The American does not yet have all the automatisms with her teammates. Complicated in a group where only three players were present last year. “I still have a few things to work on to integrate even better. I am learning French on Duolingo. Charlotte (member of the team manager, Editor's note) is also there to help me.” The player recently visited two third-year classes at Camille-Claudel College in Montpellier. Enough to familiarize yourself a little more with the environment.

In a championship that is more homogeneous than ever, Bailey's activity and drive could make the difference at the end of the season.

Lyon to climb the rankings

After ten days without a match, the Gazelles are back on the road to competition this Saturday (8 p.m.) against Asvel. Fifth in the rankings, the BLMA will see the return of Garance Rabot, to face her training club. At full strength, Lattes-Montpellier wants to bounce back against Lyon (6th) after two consecutive defeats in the championship.