These are the types of matchups that make history. And this one will surely go down in the history books, the fight by Roca for a three-peat French League Championship final win. Monaco fought with tremendous spirit in this five-game saga that left fans breathless.
The opening was brutal for Monaco. Paris seized control early, building a lead as high as 17 points in Q2—a display of interior dominance and precision from Nadir Hifi and TJ Shorts . But Monaco had a roaring comeback. Led by Jordan Loyd’s fighting spirit and Elie Okobo’s tenacity, Roca battled back. By halftime, the deficit was down to just four (54–50) .
Roca Magnificent in Q3
Unwavering, the Roca Boys turned up the heat. With Alpha Diallo’s defense and Strazel’s sharpshooting, they surged ahead—claiming a 9-point lead late in Q3 .
Drama in the Final Minutes
Q4 was a thrilling seesaw. Paris answered hard. TJ Shorts was electrified, tying the game multiple times and inspiring the crowd. Then Nadir Hifi struck with a dagger from deep. In the final 120 seconds, it was Paris who edged ahead with an 8–2 run, sealing their championship triumph .
And so in a pulsating finale on Tuesday, June 24, at the Adidas Arena, Paris Basketball emerged victorious in Game 5 of the Betclic Elite finals, defeating AS Monaco 99–93 to lift their first-ever French championship—a historic moment for the capital club.
MVP Moments & Stat Highlights
Alpha Diallo: Monaco’s top scorer with 18 points, was recognized as Betclic Elite’s Best Defender this season. Strazel & Loyd were vital spark plugs, each adding 17–18 points, playing key roles in Monaco’s rally. Paris’ TJ Shorts was the Finals MVP with 27 points and 10 rebounds.
A Victory Lap of Heart
On Wednesday night at Gaston-Médecin, some 300 courageous fans gathered to celebrate the players, cheering and chanting their appreciation, in a joyful display of solidarity after a season of relentless intensity .
Terry Tarpey stole the show, winning the applause metre, amid gifts thrown by Donatas Motiejunas and heartfelt thanks all around. The players entered to roaring cheers, with smiles on weary but proud faces.
During the evening, Roca point guard Matthew Strazel was voted this season’s MVP by the fans. Quite simply, the best player of the season.
Pride Despite Heartbreak
Even without a three-peat, Monaco’s season is a triumph of spirit. They fought with unwavering courage, playing beautiful basketball against formidable opponents. That fans poured in on short notice to honour them speaks volumes.
The real winner of this epic finale was basketball itself. A celebration of drive, passion, and unity—proving that real victory lies in hearts won, lives touched, and dreams rekindled.
Final score, Game 5: Paris Basketball 99 – AS Monaco 93
A final of firsts, a clash for the ages—thank you, Roca Boys, for the joy and unforgettable emotion. Stay strong, Monaco. Next season, the journey begins again.
