The Roca Team have secured their place in the EuroLeague playoffs for a fifth consecutive season after a hard-fought 79–70 victory over FC Barcelona Bàsquet at the Salle Gaston Médecin on Friday, April 24.
The Roca Team delivered a dominant first-half performance, combining defensive intensity with fluid attacking play to take firm control of the game. Barcelona struggled to cope with Monaco’s pressure early on, finding few solutions against a well-organised and aggressive home side.
Led by Mike James, who recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 assists, Monaco built a comfortable lead before the break. Jaron Blossomgame also played a key role, finishing with 11 points and 10 rebounds to help anchor the team’s performance on both ends of the court.
However, the second half told a different story. Barcelona came out with renewed energy after the interval, gradually chipping away at the deficit. Monaco’s intensity dipped in the third quarter, allowing the visitors to close the gap significantly and shift the momentum heading into the final stretch.
The tension rose inside the arena as Barcelona reduced the deficit to just five points late in the game, threatening a dramatic comeback. But Monaco held their nerve in the closing minutes, with crucial plays restoring a safer margin and ultimately sealing the win.
The result confirms Monaco’s place in the EuroLeague playoffs once again, where they will face Olympiacos B.C. in Athens in the next round.
Speaking after the game, head coach Manuchar Markoishvili praised his team’s resilience, highlighting their defensive effort and determination to stay composed despite a difficult third quarter. Barcelona coach Xavi Pascual pointed to his side’s slow start as the decisive factor, despite an improved second-half showing.
With qualification secured, Monaco now turn their attention to the next stage of the competition, as they prepare for an even greater challenge on the European stage.