Pro B (France) 2026/27

The competition began in 1932 as Honneur before adopting its current identity as Élite 2 for the 2025–26 campaign. It operates directly beneath the premier LNB Élite tier, acting as the primary gateway for clubs aiming to reach the top flight. The league structure involves 20 teams competing in a double round-robin format during the regular season.

Climbing to the highest level requires finishing first in the standings. The second promotion place is decided through a playoff system involving teams ranked between second and tenth, who face the 15th-placed side from the top division in a best-of-three series. Teams finishing 19th and 20th are demoted to the third-tier Nationale Masculine 1.

Historical context shows the league has undergone numerous transformations since its inception. It was known as Excellence from 1949 to 1963, followed by Nationale 2 until 1987. The Ligue Nationale de Basket assumed organisational control in 1987, overseeing subsequent rebrandings to Nationale 1B, Nationale A2, and finally Pro B. Chorale Roanne Basket currently holds the title of champion for the ongoing season.

Several clubs share the record for most titles, with each winning three championships. These include Racing Club de France, JA Vichy, Sharks d'Antibes, and Chorale Roanne. While the top tier attracts significant investment, this second division serves as a developmental stage where teams operate with more modest financial resources. Spectator records indicate notable interest in matches, with Orléans Loiret Basket holding the attendance record. The league maintains an official presence via basketball.fr.

What distinguishes this tier is its role in player development and club progression rather than just elite competition. The pathway from this level to the top flight remains the standard route for ambitious teams seeking higher visibility and resources. The transition between divisions defines the competitive landscape, ensuring a constant flow of talent upward and downward based on performance.