Paris is driving Monaco crazy

Published on June 19, 2026

We are just one victory away from the ultimate title! This Friday evening, Paris Basketball completely crushed Monaco on their own turf during Game 3 of the Betclic ELITE Finals (77-88).

Frontcourt for Paris and backcourt for Monaco! Each team in its own zone, both come out firing on all cylinders from the opening tip. While the home team takes the lead, our players aren’t far behind on the scoreboard. Unlike the previous encounter, we’re exploiting the space behind Monaco’s defense in transition thanks to excellent ball movement. Especially since our sharp second-string players are giving our opponents a hard time on the boards. Three-pointers, however, are proving elusive for Julius Thomas’s squad, unlike Monaco, whose low volume is compensated for by exceptional shooting. This first quarter is indeed marked by missed free throws! Out of nearly 15 attempts, only 6 are successful. This dismal 36% from the line by Monaco prevents the Principality from pulling away (26-17). Even when the Red and Whites pulled off a spectacular comeback to start the second quarter, Paris remained completely unfazed. Momo continued to dominate in the paint on both ends of the court, Léo shone in his ultimate utility role, and then Nadir opened his scoring with a three-pointer. The result: from a 13-point deficit, they were back within a single possession in just a few plays! This scoring run coincided with a significant drop in Monaco’s offensive momentum. It’s difficult to score when monsters like Lamar are on a defensive mission. Back in the game, our Parisians didn’t let up for a second against the club from the Rock. A burning desire and determination emanated from our ranks! At halftime, the game was wide open again (44-40).

The defenses clearly stepped up their game, and as soon as all 10 players were back on the court, neither team scored. For three and a half minutes, there were some sloppy plays, but the turning point was the increasingly intense duels. Our players tied the game from the free-throw line (44-44) but couldn’t take the lead. Monaco struggled with the ball because of our defensive scheme! Luckily for them, Nemanja Nedović was there to break the deadlock. Amid this unusual tempo, our team eased up slightly on offense. Despite some good openings created by Nadir, who was in full-on playmaker mode, Paris missed some key opportunities near the basket. However, we capitalized on a hot streak from the Prince of Paris, coupled with a near buzzer-beater from Seba, to match Monaco’s momentum (61-58). Then, for the first time in the game, we took the lead thanks to a well-executed transition. The momentum had shifted! Because although the Roca Team responded quickly, the Parisian game seemed more consistent. Now it was Monaco’s turn to chase the score! Defensive stops and lightning-fast counter-attacks rained down on Paris Basketball. Truly bad luck for Gaston Médecin, who helplessly watched Lamar’s best game in our colors. A thought for the rims that took the brunt of our power forward’s numerous dunks. Especially since our off-ball tactical adjustments were paying off. Only individual brilliance managed to penetrate our white wall. Not to mention the increasingly visible physical limitations. But the final straw was mental. Strazel’s teammates completely collapsed while Paris remained composed before pulling away on the scoreboard. The club from the Rock didn’t even get a crunch time as our players left no chance (77-88).

It wasn’t Monaco who thwarted their opponents, but rather Paris who outmaneuvered Monaco! Through sheer persistence, our Parisians weathered the storm and ultimately sealed the victory.

We hope to win the next match and lift the French championship trophy. If not, a Game 5 will be held at the Adidas Arena. To get priority access to tickets, click on this link and activate the bell !

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