TaShawn Thomas returns to Le Mans after adventure at Derthona Tortona

TaShawn Thomas (2.03 m, 31), who had a very convincing season with Les Mancelles in 2021-2022, is returning to MSB. An experienced and versatile inside player, able to operate with ease in positions 4 and 5, he will be a key member of Guillaume Vizade’s team next season.

TaShawn Thomas has had a remarkable year in his first year at Sarthe. An indisputable all-star, named one of the top 3 players in the league, he averaged 13.7 points (58.7% success rate), 6.2 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 17 points per game in 27 minutes for Manceau.

Reigning French vice-champion with Victor Wembanyama’s Metropolitans 92, whom he reinforced last season in the final sprint, the NCAA-trained inside player (Houston Cougars and Oklahoma Sooners) played this year for Tortona in Italy’s top division. In a crowded squad, he had a frustrating season, between disappointing collective results and limited playing time off the bench (6.5 points at 59% success rate, in an average of 18 minutes).

Ambitious on his return to Le Mans, the Las Vegas native will bring to Guillaume Vizade’s group his vast experience (already 9 seasons in Europe), mobility and knowledge of the game, characterized in particular by creative qualities that are rare for a player in his position.

TaShawn Thomas is now the eighth player under professional contract at MSB for next season, alongside Léopold Delaunay, Williams Narace, Abdoulaye Ndoye, Mathias van den Beemt and Wilfried Yeguete, recently joined by recruits Tray Buchanan and Noah Penda. A winger and a point guard will soon complete the squad.

New MSB coach Guillaume Vizade’s words

"TaShawn’s arrival is excellent news for the construction of our team. An experienced player, who knows the MSB house, and who has a very good basketball IQ, he has that rare ability for a pivot to be able to play both wide and inside, notably thanks to his passing quality and dexterity. His versatility will make it possible to combine him with all the other inside players in our racket."

TaShawn Thomas’ words

"I’m very excited by the prospect of returning to Le Mans. When I first chose to join this organization, I knew it was a great club, so making this decision wasn’t difficult. I’m ready to take on a leadership role and put in a great year with the team. I believe in coach Guillaume Vizade and his vision. I’ll be giving my all throughout the season.