Matthew Strazel delivers in the clutch as AS Monaco edges Olympiacos in dramatic finish

AS Monaco’s resilience was put to the ultimate test against one of EuroLeague‘s powerhouses, and the Monégasques responded with an inspiring performance that keeps their playoff hopes alive. Playing with a depleted roster of just nine professionals due to injuries to Élie Okobo and Nikola Mirotic, the Roca Team demonstrated exceptional character throughout the contest.

Early dominance gives way to tight finish

Monaco started strongly, building a commanding 15-point lead midway through the second quarter (35-22) with multiple offensive threats contributing. However, Olympiacos fought back to close the gap to five points at halftime (43-38) and even took the lead after the break, powered by Nikola Milutinov‘s dominant interior play (13 points and 10 rebounds).

The final moments proved heart-stopping for Monaco fans. With the score tied at 79-79 and just 60 seconds remaining, Mike James suffered an injury during a fast break attempt, forcing him to leave the court immediately. The American guard had been perfect from the free-throw line (8/8) and finished with 14 points before his untimely exit.

Strazel steps up in crunch time

Despite the setbacks, Monaco’s French core once again proved decisive in a crucial moment. With 4 seconds left on the clock, Matthew Strazel (5’11 », 23 years old) navigated past Frank Ntilikina‘s defense to score a crucial floater off the backboard, securing the 81-80 victory for the principality club.

🔥 MATTHEWWWW STRAZELLLL!!

FOR THE WIIIIIN! 😱#RocaTeam #RivalrySeries pic.twitter.com/LRfCIvBfcO

— AS Monaco Basket 🇲🇨 (@ASMonaco_Basket) March 12, 2026

The win was built on Monaco’s disciplined approach despite their shooting struggles from beyond the arc (5/24 on 3-points). The team compensated with excellent 2-point shooting (26/41), near-perfect free-throw execution (14/16), and careful ball handling with only 11 turnovers. Jaron Blossomgame contributed 13 points on perfect 2-point shooting (6/6).

This victory represents more than just two points in the standings for Monaco (9th place), coming at a time when the organization faces significant challenges. The triumph showcases the team’s ability to rally together and find ways to win even in the most difficult circumstances, keeping their EuroLeague playoff aspirations very much alive.

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