Roca Team claimed its first victory of the Betclic Elite season, overcoming Strasbourg 77-65. Despite initial struggles, the team rallied behind key performances from Matthew Strazel and Elie Okobo, who played pivotal roles in securing the win, particularly in the second half with strong defensive efforts.
The Game
In this second Betclic Elite game, Roca Team was eager to impress its home fans at Gaston Médecin Arena after a rough preseason and a loss to Saint-Quentin in their opener. Without star players Mike James and Nick Calathes, Monaco started with Strazel, Korkmaz, Tarpey, Blossomgame, and Motiejunas.
Monaco began aggressively on defense, with strong plays from Blossomgame and Motiejunas. However, Strasbourg responded well, led by Brice Dessert, and gained a lead by the end of the first quarter (19-24). Monaco struggled offensively, falling behind by 9 points in the second quarter (25-34), but Strazel and Okobo kept them in the game. At halftime, Strasbourg led 40-35.
In the second half, Monaco turned things around. Strazel and Okobo led the charge, and a three-pointer by Blossomgame helped them tie the game (42-42). Momentum shifted as the team tightened their defense and extended their lead to 10 points in the fourth quarter, thanks to Strazel’s critical plays. Strasbourg couldn’t recover, and Monaco sealed the win (77-65).
Post-Game Reaction
Sasa Obradovic (Coach) highlighted how the team struggled to find its rhythm in the first half. The new players are still adjusting. Defensively, Roca has been solid, but missed too many open shots. Still, a win is a win.
This win has to give Roca Team a lot of confidence heading into the Euroleague opener against Milan.
