By Eurohoops / amolina@eurohoops.net
AS Monaco bounced back in style from their recent setback in Athens, securing a convincing 99–85 victory over Le Mans to maintain their position at the top of the French league standings.
Following their defeat against Panathinaikos earlier in the week, the Monegasque side showed no signs of lingering frustration, delivering a dominant performance on home court. From the opening tip, Monaco imposed their rhythm, racing to a 26–16 lead in the first quarter that set the tone for the rest of the contest.
That early surge proved decisive. Monaco never relinquished control, consistently holding double-digit advantages throughout the game and leaving their opponents with little opportunity to mount a comeback.
Jaron Blossomgame led the scoring effort with 18 points, spearheading a balanced offensive display. He was well supported by Elie Okobo, who added 15 points, and Matthew Strazel, who contributed 17 in a strong showing. Both players stepped up in the absence of Mike James, who continues to recover from injury.
For Le Mans, Bastien Grasshoff was the standout performer, finishing as the team’s top scorer with 13 points, though his efforts were not enough to challenge Monaco’s superiority.
With this win, Monaco close the week on a positive note, reinforcing their status as league leaders and quickly putting their European disappointment behind them.
LNB Round 24
Boulazac – Strasbourg 95–76
Mónaco – Le Mans 99–85
Cholet – Asvel Basket 93–85
Nanterre – Saint Quentin 80–75
Limoges – Nancy 89–95
Dijon – Paris 76–92
Elan Chalon – Gravelines-Dunkerque 86–81
STANDINGS: AS Monaco (20-3), Nanterre (118-6), Paris Basketball (17-7)…