Monaco secured a crucial win against Barcelona with a score of 97-80, taking a 1-0 lead in the EuroLeague playoff series. The game was held at the Principality, where Monaco had home-court advantage, and featured numerous ups and downs. However, the Monegasques found ways to dominate and claim their first victory in the series, putting them one step closer to the Final Four in Abu Dhabi.

Monaco vs. Barcelona: The Game

The match began with Barcelona taking the lead, fueled by a hot Kevin Punter, who nailed 3/3 three-pointers for 9 points, giving them an early 8-11 lead in the fourth minute, which then grew to 8-14 with contributions from Anderson. Monaco responded sharply, and both teams showcased beautiful basketball, with the score balancing out at 16-16 just 4 minutes before the end of the first quarter. With efforts from Vesely and Abrines, the Catalans regained the lead, finishing the quarter at 21-25.

The second quarter saw a tough battle as the game remained tightly contested. However, Monaco shifted gears and erupted with a 15-0 run, largely driven by Eli Okobo, bringing the score to 41-27 at the 15-minute mark. Barcelona managed to respond with a 1-10 run, narrowing the gap to 5 points (42-37), and with the help of Abrines and Fall, they closed in further to just a basket’s distance (44-42). Youssoufa Fall emerged as a hero for Coach Peña-Roja’s team, logging 9 points and 9 rebounds in the first half.

After halftime, James and Tice led the charge for the Monegasques, who began to gain control of the match with a double-digit lead (66-54 at the 27-minute mark). Mike James was on fire, pushing Monaco to a +17 lead by the end of the third quarter, finishing at 76-59.

Quarter Scores: 21-25, 44-42, 76-59, 97-80