Initially projected for top spots in the Euroleague Power Ranking, AS Monaco and Panathinaikos faced off this Friday at OAKA under unforeseen circumstances. Both teams have endured disappointing seasons marked by various challenges and are now locked in a final race to avoid the play-in tournament—a scenario no one anticipated last September.
Despite the return of Nikola Mirotic, Monaco’s interior game proved insufficient, largely due to Daniel Theis’s absence. Élie Okobo, who recorded an impressive 26 assists without a single turnover this week, was ultimately unable to prevent his team’s 107-97 defeat in Greece.
Monaco found themselves on the back foot from the opening tip. After four minutes of play, the Principality club had managed just two points (7-2). Nemanja Nedovic helped to close the gap (7-5), allowing Monaco to hold a slight lead by the end of a first quarter marred by seven turnovers (15-16).
A Decisive Second Quarter
Despite Jaron Blossomgame’s energetic contributions (7 points and 5 rebounds by halftime), the Roca Team quickly began to unravel. They were heavily outplayed under the basket, conceding 12 offensive rebounds to their opponents and failing to capitalize on the Greeks’ early struggles, who started the game 0/10 from beyond the arc.
Propelled by Kendrick Nunn, who maintained his consistent performance (10 points and 3 assists at the break), and an excellent TJ Shorts (7 points and 2 steals by halftime), Ergin Ataman’s squad established a substantial lead by the time they headed into the locker room (52-35).
“We need to fight harder. In terms of effort, they consistently surpass us,” remarked ASM coach Manuchar Makoishvili just before the second half. This was easier said than done, especially for a squad reduced to just nine active players, weakened by departures and injuries, facing a Panathinaikos team that could bring in quality reserves like Juancho Hernangomez and Kenneth Faried.
Nevertheless, the Georgian coach’s team displayed resilience. Élie Okobo, in particular, was exceptional on offense (24 points, 13 assists). However, this fighting spirit was not enough to truly threaten the “Greens.” Physically exhausted, Monaco eventually succumbed and will now need to exert considerable effort to secure a spot in the Euroleague playoffs.
