The Roca Team produced a brave but ultimately unsuccessful performance as they were edged out 83–87 by ASVEL Basket at the Salle Gaston Médecin.
Severely depleted ahead of the Betclic Élite clash, Monaco entered the game without several key players due to injury and suspension, forcing the coaching staff to rely on a shortened rotation bolstered by young prospects. Despite the circumstances, the home side delivered a combative display that kept them in contention until the final moments.
Monaco made the brighter start, showing intensity on both ends of the court. Early defensive pressure and energetic play—particularly from emerging talents—helped the hosts build an early advantage, leading by as many as 11 points in the opening quarter.
However, the game took a dramatic turn early in the second period when Mike James was ejected after receiving two technical fouls. The dismissal disrupted Monaco’s rhythm, yet the team responded with resilience, maintaining a narrow lead heading into half-time.
After the break, Monaco continued to fight, with Jaron Blossomgame, Alpha Diallo and Kevarrius Hayes leading the charge. The hosts managed to hold off repeated ASVEL surges, but the visitors gradually closed the gap, finding their range from long distance and shifting momentum as the game entered its decisive phase.
The final quarter proved decisive. ASVEL capitalised on their experience and depth, edging ahead in the closing minutes as Monaco began to feel the strain of their limited rotation. Despite a determined effort to stay within reach, the Principality side could not prevent the visitors from pulling away in the closing exchanges.
The defeat ends a valiant effort from Monaco, who were backed by a strong home crowd and showed significant character under difficult conditions. Attention now turns quickly to the EuroLeague play-in clash against Panathinaikos, where a place in the play-offs will be at stake.
