The Roca Team secured its place in the Betclic Élite final for a fifth consecutive season after defeating Nanterre 89-78 on the road to clinch their semi-final series.
Despite being hampered by injuries throughout the playoffs, the Roca Team once again demonstrated its depth and resilience, overcoming a determined Nanterre side to seal the decisive victory and continue its pursuit of the French championship title.
Monaco made a slow start at the Palais des Sports Maurice Thorez, with Nanterre racing into an early lead as they fought to keep their season alive. However, the visitors gradually settled into the contest through the efforts of Jaron Blossomgame and Matthew Strazel, before a late first-quarter surge, capped by one of Elie Okobo’s trademark buzzer-beaters, shifted the momentum in Monaco’s favour.
The Principality club carried that energy into the second quarter. Okobo began to dictate the tempo offensively, while Strazel, Juhann Begarin and Yoan Makoundou all made important contributions as Monaco tightened its grip on the game. Improved defensive intensity and efficient shooting allowed the visitors to open a double-digit advantage before halftime.
Nanterre attempted to respond after the break, but Monaco remained firmly in control. Blossomgame continued to provide scoring support, while Makoundou and Begarin delivered key plays at both ends of the court to maintain the cushion heading into the final quarter.
With the hosts making one final push, Monaco relied on the experience and composure of Okobo and Strazel to extinguish any hopes of a comeback. A series of decisive baskets, combined with strong defensive execution, enabled the Roca Team to close out the contest and secure the series victory.
The win sends Monaco into the French championship final for the fifth year running, underlining the consistency that has made the club one of the dominant forces in French basketball. It also marks another impressive achievement for a squad that has continued to overcome significant injury setbacks throughout the season.
Speaking after the game, Okobo praised the team’s determination and consistency, while centre Kevarrius Hayes highlighted the character shown by a group that many had doubted could navigate the playoffs with such a depleted roster.
Monaco will now turn its attention to the final, where the Roca Team will aim to complete another successful domestic campaign and add the French title to its growing list of achievements.
