After two consecutive losses, the Roca Team roared back, defeating Euroleague runners-up Fenerbahçe 91-82 at home on Thursday, March 20. The victory keeps Monaco in contention for a top-four finish, avenging last year’s Final Four elimination by the Turkish side.
Mike James led the charge, dropping 29 points and dishing out six assists. The American point guard shone brightest in crunch time, nailing a clutch three-pointer to secure an 85-78 lead, finishing with a 92-81 scoreline. His standout performance against the team that cost him a second Final Four—and his MVP title—last season fuelled Monaco’s resurgence after recent setbacks.
James dominated early with 19 first-half points, while Alpha Diallo’s late-game hustle—an interception and key offensive rebound—set up the decisive shot. Daniel Theis, back from a tailbone injury, added 15 points and seven rebounds, bolstering a defense that clamped down after a shaky first quarter (28 points allowed) to concede just 54 the rest of the way. Mam Jaiteh and Elie Okobo sparked a 16-2 run in the second quarter, building a 44-37 lead by the 18th minute.
Fenerbahçe, led by Errick McCollum’s 24 points, mounted a late rally, closing to 75-76 in the 37th minute. But Wade Baldwin faltered, and despite Marko Guduric’s 15 points, the Turks couldn’t repeat their earlier season success. Monaco, now 18-12 and fourth in the standings with four games left, faces stiff competition from five teams nipping at their heels. A top-four spot—and home-court advantage in the quarterfinals—remains within reach as they head to Kaunas on Tuesday, March 25.
