The Roca Team delivered a statement performance in Istanbul, fighting back to defeat Anadolu Efes and secure a vital away victory that keeps the Roca Team firmly in the EuroLeague playoff race.
Facing a determined Efes side on their home court, backed by a crowd accustomed to recent European success, Monaco showed resilience and composure to overturn a deficit and claim a second consecutive win in the competition.
Despite missing key players including Mike James and Nikola Mirotić, Monaco started with intent, relying on a balanced offensive approach and quick ball movement. Daniel Theis and Matthew Strazel helped set the early tempo, while Nemanja Nedović and Alpha Diallo contributed to a tightly contested opening half.
Efes gradually took control before the break, capitalising on Monaco’s turnovers and strong perimeter shooting to build an advantage. At halftime, the Turkish side held the upper hand, forcing Monaco into a chase.
The Roca Team responded after the interval with renewed intensity. Elie Okobo, returning from injury, provided a spark offensively, while Monaco’s defense tightened to slow Efes’ rhythm. Still, the home side maintained a narrow lead heading into the final quarter.
What followed was a dramatic shift in momentum. Monaco increased the pressure on both ends of the floor, forcing key stops and finding success from beyond the arc. As the clock ticked down, the game turned in Monaco’s favour thanks to a decisive late surge.
Jaron Blossomgame emerged as the standout figure in the closing minutes, scoring a flurry of points, including several crucial baskets in the final stretch, to push Monaco ahead. Supported by timely contributions from Juhann Begarin and Alpha Diallo, the visitors completed a remarkable comeback.
In the final moments, Monaco held their nerve from the free-throw line and in transition, sealing a hard-earned victory on the road.
The win not only highlights the team’s depth and fighting spirit amid a challenging period but also reinforces their position in the standings, keeping hopes of a top-six finish, and direct qualification for the quarter-finals, very much alive.