Monaco’s Roca Team made their intentions for the season unmistakably clear in Paris, powering to a 99–94 win over the reigning French champions in a thrilling Betclic Elite clash. From the off, Vassilis Spanoulis’s men looked like a side with unfinished business. They led for most of the night, absorbed a fierce Parisian fightback in the third quarter, and left the capital with a victory that felt as much about pride as it was about points.
The game began at full throttle, with Paris storming ahead 8–0 thanks to Nadir Hifi’s sharp shooting and pace. But once Matthew Strazel got Monaco on the board with a corner three, the visitors settled and began to dictate. Mike James orchestrated the attack, Jaron Blossomgame hustled at both ends, and Nikola Mirotić imposed himself inside. A blistering 15–0 run flipped the scoreline, silenced the crowd, and reasserted Monaco’s dominance.
Elie Okobo then took over. The French guard produced a stunning display, blending precision shooting with flair in transition. His chemistry with Blossomgame lit up the arena, as the pair combined for one highlight after another. Even after Alpha Diallo was controversially ejected for two quick technical fouls, Monaco held firm and led 55–45 at the break.
Paris came roaring back after halftime, with Mbaye, Hommes, and Hifi raining threes to narrow the gap. The hosts even edged in front briefly, but Monaco’s response was ruthless. Mike James steadied the tempo, Okobo stayed electric, and Mirotić punished mismatches to swing momentum back their way. By the end of the third quarter, Okobo had dropped another deep three at the buzzer, restoring a five-point cushion that proved crucial.
The final minutes were chaotic and gripping. Paris refused to fold, with Ouattara and Hifi clawing back points, but Monaco’s depth told. Theis and Mirotić dominated the boards, and Okobo delivered the knockout blow from long range. Even a late scare for Mike James couldn’t dent their resolve. When the buzzer sounded, the Roca Team had their statement win: 99–94, away to the champions.
It was the sort of performance that reminds everyone why Monaco remain among Europe’s elite. The message was simple: the crown might sit in Paris for now, but the team from the Rock fully intend to reclaim it.
