AS Monaco Wins French League Championship with Dominant Fourth-Quarter Comeback Against Paris Basketball

AS Monaco reclaimed the French league title for the third time in four seasons, defeating Paris Basketball 92-101 in Game 5 of the finals at a packed adidas arena. The Monegasque team orchestrated a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback to secure the championship.

The Principality's squad executed a stunning rally in the final quarter, with a 0-12 run completely shifting the momentum of the game. Paris had closed the third period with an 81-73 lead and appeared to have the title within reach, but Monaco responded with authority when it mattered most.

Jaron Blossomgame led the champions with 27 points, while Elie Okobo delivered a historic performance with 12 points and 15 assists—a French finals record—earning him the Finals MVP award. Juhann Begarin also proved crucial with 18 points and 9 rebounds, Yoan Makoundou added 14 points, and Alpha Diallo contributed 10.

Mike James, who had not played since May 5, made a timely return and provided 7 points and 7 assists. The American point guard also wore the No. 32 jersey of teammate Matthew Strazel, who is currently suspended.

Paris Basketball, which had genuine chances to claim the title, found their most productive player in Justin Robinson with 12 points and 5 assists. Nadir Hifi and Lamar Stevens each added 11 points, but the Parisian squad could not maintain their advantage down the stretch.

The game began with an ankle injury to Kevarrius Hayes for Monaco. Paris started strong with a 6-0 run, though the visitors quickly responded through Okobo and Makoundou. After an even first quarter, Monaco led 24-27.

In the second quarter, the Monegasques built a nine-point advantage at 42-51, but Paris answered with strong three-point shooting before halftime, leaving the score at 52-55 at the break.

The major local surge came after the halftime break. Lamar Stevens, Momo Faye, and Daulton Hommes spearheaded an aggressive Paris team that scored 29 points in the third quarter and entered the final ten minutes with an eight-point lead.

But that's when Monaco's championship character emerged. The visiting team opened the fourth quarter with a devastating 0-12 run to take an 81-85 lead. Mike James scored five points during that stretch and shifted the game's energy. Paris pulled within one point at 90-91 with three minutes remaining, but Monaco struck back with a three-pointer from Begarin off a James assist and an alley-oop from Okobo to Blossomgame.

A final 0-9 run sealed the game, the series, and the season. Monaco completed a memorable comeback and reclaimed the French crown with a prestigious victory on the road against Paris Basketball.