After letting the first game slip away despite a comfortable lead, AS Monaco gave a perfect response Wednesday evening at the Adidas Arena by winning game 2 of the Betclic Élite final against Paris Basketball (89-80). A victory of character that allows the Monégasques to draw level at one game apiece before returning to the Principality.
This time, the Roca Team did not repeat the mistakes of the first meeting. More focused, more disciplined and especially much more consistent in their effort, the men from the principality quickly took control of the game. Carried by a brilliant Matthew Strazel, they imposed their rhythm on a Parisian team constantly forced to play catch-up.
The Monégasque point guard delivered a true captain’s performance. Author of more than 20 points and 9 assists, Strazel orchestrated the proceedings with great control, alternating creativity and offensive aggression. By his side, Alpha Diallo also weighed heavily on the match. The American forward surpassed the 20-point mark, multiplying decisive plays in important moments to keep Paris at a distance.
After a brilliant game 1 despite the loss, Elie Okobo also made his contribution. Very prominent at the start of the match, the Monégasque guard allowed his team to build confidence offensively before experiencing a more difficult stretch. But his strong start largely contributed to putting Monaco on a positive trajectory.
The Roca Team led the way
On the other side, Paris Basketball never really found the fluidity that had been its strength in game 1. Less accurate from three-point range, less inspired in their offensive sequences and facing much more rigorous Monégasque defense, the Parisians constantly tried to catch up without ever managing to turn the tide.
Nadir Hifi stepped up once again in stretches. The Parisian guard managed several brilliant plays and kept his team’s hopes alive for much of the match. But like his team, he lacked precision in the money-time, unable to convert possessions that could have completely revived the suspense.
The major difference from the first match is probably in Monégasque management. More focused, the Roca Team considerably reduced their number of mistakes and turnovers. A control that had been lacking in the opening of the series and that allows them this time to leave Paris with a well-deserved victory.
One all in this Betclic Élite final
The final is now completely back in play. After regaining home-court advantage, Monaco returns to its arena with the feeling of having regained the psychological upper hand. Paris, for its part, will need to quickly rediscover the efficiency and creativity seen in the first game to hope to regain the advantage in this series that is shaping up to be more unpredictable than ever.
NicePremium is a free, independent local news outlet.
Help us keep going by supporting our work from €5 per month.
