After splitting the first two games of the Betclic Elite Finals in Paris, Monaco returned to Salle Gaston Médecin on Friday 19 June looking to take control of the series at home. Despite leading for most of the evening, the Roca Team saw Paris Basketball take over in the second half, falling 88-77 as Paris moved ahead 2-1 in the best-of-five series.
Monaco began strongly, matching Paris’ intensity from tip-off and building an early lead through efficient shooting beyond the arc. While both sides exchanged baskets and turnovers, Monaco’s three-point efficiency allowed them to establish a 26-17 advantage after the first 10 minutes. The stakes were high and could be felt across the arena, from the court and the sidelines to the stands.
The Roca Team built on this momentum in the second quarter, forcing turnovers and extending their lead. However, Monaco began losing their ability to capitalize on these mistakes, allowing Paris to gradually reduce the deficit. The first half also highlighted Monaco’s struggles at the free-throw line, preventing them from building a more comfortable lead. They entered halftime leading 44-40.
The start of the second half proved to be a turning point. Both teams struggled offensively, remaining scoreless for more than two minutes before free throws from Paris reopened the scoring. Eventually, Monaco’s lead was fully eliminated as the teams were level for the first time since the opening of the game. Although the Roca Team responded, briefly restoring a seven-point lead midway through the quarter, Paris continued to answer. A late three-pointer reduced Monaco’s lead to just three points heading into the final quarter.
Paris carried their momentum into the fourth quarter, taking their first lead of the game within the opening minute. Monaco responded immediately, setting up a back-and-forth battle throughout the early stages of the quarter. Near the midway point, Paris had gradually gained control, finding themselves with a five-point lead.
Despite their efficiency from beyond the arc in the first quarter, Monaco struggled from deep for the rest of the game but continued to rely on three-point attempts, allowing Paris to further increase their advantage. Free throws from Nadir Hifi gave Paris a double-digit lead, while late ejections for Alpha Diallo and Matthew Strazel further reflected Monaco’s frustrations.
The Roca Team converted only 47.6% of their free throws, missing 11 attempts, while also being out-rebounded 44-32. These shortcomings proved costly against the reigning champions, as Paris secured an 88-77 victory, moving within one win of another French championship.
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Photo credit: AS Monaco Basket