The Roca Team narrowly missed out on a remarkable comeback against Bayern Munich on Wednesday, losing 95-94 in the final moments of the EuroLeague’s 21st round. Despite Mike James bringing Monaco within two points with just eight seconds remaining, Bayern’s Shabazz Napier sealed the game with a decisive three-pointer, handing the Bavarians a much-needed victory on home court and dealing Monaco their eighth loss of the season.

Bayern’s dominance from beyond the arc defined the match, particularly in a blistering first quarter where they shot an astonishing 80% (8/10) from three-point range, quickly opening up a 30-13 lead. The Germans ended the game with a stunning 20/33 success rate from deep, led by Carsen Edwards, who scored a team-high 25 points, including four three-pointers, and Napier, who was nearly perfect with four out of five attempts.

Trailing by as much as 20 points in the second quarter, Monaco managed to reduce the deficit to 13 by halftime (53-40). A spirited comeback effort in the second half, powered by Matthew Strazel and Jordan Loyd, saw the visitors claw their way back into contention. Loyd’s clutch plays brought Monaco level at 88-88 with just two minutes left, and Mam Jaiteh’s basket briefly gave them the lead at 90-88.

However, Bayern, desperate to break a three-game losing streak, held their nerve. Napier’s late heroics secured the victory, keeping Bayern in 10th place and within the playoff play-in spots.

Monaco, now on a two-game skid after falling to Barcelona last week, faces another tough road game on Friday, January 17 against Red Star Belgrade, as they aim to maintain their strong position in the standings.