Monaco’s Hoops and Dreams: Triumphs, Transfers, and a Taste of Future Glory
The 2023-2024 season was a thrilling ride for AS Monaco Basketball, capped by a resounding victory that cemented their status as French champions for the second consecutive year. The highlight was undoubtedly the June showdown against Paris Basketball. Thanks to an MVP performance from Mike James and the explosive energy of Elie Okobo, the Roca Team dominated, leaving Paris in the dust with a 39-point victory in Game Four.
Transfer Season Drama
As the season ended, the summer transfer window brought its own set of challenges and opportunities. A primary concern was retaining star player Mike James, who was surely in high demand from clubs across Europe and America. Fortunately, Monaco fans can breathe a sigh of relief as James has signed a contract extension, ensuring his exceptional talents remain with the team.
With a solid foundation and Mike James secured, AS Monaco is poised for further success. Their third-place finish in the regular EuroLeague standings last season sets the stage for even higher ambitions, with the team aiming to conquer European basketball.
Elie Okobo Stays with James
Stability is key for Monaco, and the club has extended French international guard Elie Okobo’s contract for two more seasons. Okobo has become a vital part of the Monaco roster, forming a formidable partnership with Mike James. His standout performances, particularly in that Betclic Elite final against Paris, highlight his ability to shine when it matters most.
Maintaining the Core
Key players are staying put, including star centre Donatas Motiejunas, who has signed on for two more seasons. The Lithuanian, stays as another cornerstone of Monaco’s project.
Farewell to Legends
However, the transfer season also brings departures, and Monaco bids farewell to some iconic figures. Yakuba Ouattara, the legendary captain, leaves after eight seasons, leaving behind an unmatched legacy of over 380 games and two consecutive French championships.
Other notable greats departing include Donta Hall and Jordan Loyd, both of whom have made significant contributions to Monaco’s success.
Welcoming New Blood
On the flip side, Monaco welcomes exciting new talent. Furkan Korkmaz, a 27-year-old Turkish shooter, joins from the Philadelphia 76ers, bringing his experience playing among the greats. Georgios Papagiannis, a 27-year-old Greek centre joins him from Fenerbahçe, adding versatility and scoring ability to the frontcourt. Not to mention Vitto Brown, a power forward from Pinar Karsiyaka is also joining the ranks, along with other promising talents.
Transfer Window Summary
Arrivals:
– Vitto Brown (Pinar Karsiyaka – TUR)
– Furkan Korkmaz (Philadelphia 76 – USA)
– Nick Calathes (Fenerbahce – TUR)
– Georgios Papagiannis (Fenerbahce – TUR)
– Juhann Begarin (Nanterre)
Departures:
– Yakuba Ouattara (Paris – Betclic ELITE ProA)
– Jordan Loyd (M.Tel-Aviv – ISR-Winner League)
– Donta Hall (Baskonia – ESP-Liga Endesa)
– Nicolas Vanel (Pitesti – ROM-Liga Nationala)
– Mohammad Amini (Nancy – Betclic ELITE ProA)
Looking Ahead: The 2024-2025 Betclic Elite Schedule
The schedule for the upcoming season has been revealed. Sasa Obradovic’s squad begins their mission for a third Betclic Elite title on September 21st in Saint-Quentin, followed by their first home game against SIG Strasbourg at Gaston-Médecin on September 28th. The journey promises high-stakes games and new opportunities for Monaco to shine both in France and across Europe.
