Monaco’s Roca Team endured a difficult evening in Istanbul on Thursday, March 5, falling 88–70 to Fenerbahçe Beko at the Ulker Sports and Event Hall in EuroLeague action.
Facing one of the competition’s most in-form sides, Monaco struggled to keep pace after the hosts made a strong start. Fenerbahçe opened the game with a 9–0 run and quickly established control, limiting the Roca Team to just 15 points in the opening quarter. From that point on, Monaco found themselves chasing the game.
Despite moments of resistance, particularly from Mike James who led the Monegasque side with 14 points and eight assists, the visitors were unable to sustain momentum against a well-organised Fenerbahçe defence. Jaron Blossomgame added 12 points whilst Daniel Theis contributed 11, but Monaco’s offence struggled to find consistency, especially from long range.
A brief spark came midway through the third quarter when James helped reduce the deficit, and later in the fourth period Nemanja Nedovic struck two consecutive three-pointers to bring Monaco back within seven points. However, each attempt to close the gap was quickly answered by the Turkish side.
Talen Horton-Tucker proved decisive for Fenerbahçe, delivering a standout performance with 28 points along with eight rebounds and three assists. His scoring bursts repeatedly halted Monaco’s comeback efforts and helped maintain the hosts’ control of the contest.
Fenerbahçe’s victory extends their impressive run of form, strengthening their position near the top of the EuroLeague standings. For Monaco, the result marks a setback after recent positive performances and leaves the Roca Team looking to regroup as the regular season enters its decisive phase.
The Monegasque side will now turn its attention to the next challenge in the EuroLeague, when they return home to face Olympiacos at the Salle Gaston Médecin on Thursday, March 12.