By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
David Lighty and LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne are not finished after all, as the club legend has confirmed he will continue his storied journey in Lyon.
Following speculation about his departure due to a recent budget reduction for the EuroLeague outfit, the French powerhouse surprised fans on Friday by releasing an emotional social media video featuring the 38-year-old American guard-forward.
Reflecting deeply on his eleven years with the franchise, the Cleveland native expressed immense love and appreciation for the entire ASVEL world, stating that he never could have guessed he would spend over a decade in Lyon while capturing so many trophies and memories.
Words from our Legend. pic.twitter.com/GxX2Mb7dIR
— LDLC ASVEL (@LDLCASVEL) August 21, 2026
While Lighty cryptically concluded the video by hinting that they are not done yet and stating they will see what they can do next year, the announcement leaves significant ambiguity regarding his exact status for the upcoming 2026–27 campaign. At no point does he formally specify whether he will remain an active player on the roster or transition into a different operational role within the organization.
Whether on the court or on the sidelines, he will tie into a resilient roster managed by legendary owner Tony Parker, who is stepping into a brand-new role as he takes on his very first club coaching assignment.
Navigating financial constraints to assemble an ambitious core group preparing to compete across multiple fronts, including both France’s Betclic Elite and a grueling EuroLeague season.
If Lighty remains in uniform, his immense veteran presence will integrate alongside a versatile mix of confirmed talent that currently features Joel Bolomboy, Myles Cale, Jae Crowder, Marc-Owen Fodzo Dada, Both Gach, Edwin Jackson, Bodian Massa, Patty Mills, Yves Pons, and Nate Sestina.
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