Saint-Quentin shocks Monaco in a thrilling opener. © Twitter (@Starting__Five)
Saint-Quentin returned triumphantly to France’s top basketball division by defeating reigning champions Monaco 68-66 in the season opener of the Betclic Elite. The game marked a significant moment for Saint-Quentin, securing their first top-division victory in 31 years. Despite facing a team loaded with EuroLeague talent, they held their ground and pulled off a shock win.
Monaco, which was missing star guard Mike James due to back surgery, struggled throughout the game. Even with contributions from key players like Elie Okobo, who led with 15 points, and new additions Giorgos Papagiannis (12 points, 8 rebounds) and Nick Calathes (5 points, 7 rebounds), Monaco found itself trailing by as many as 15 points. Their attempt to stage a comeback in the final quarter fell short.
Jerome Robinson was the standout performer for Saint-Quentin, leading the team with 15 points. His offensive spark helped keep Monaco at bay, ensuring Saint-Quentin could withstand the late pressure. This win will give the newly-promoted side confidence as they navigate the challenges of the French league.
One of the key talking points was the performance of Nolan Traore, the teenage sensation expected to be a top-five NBA draft pick. Though Traore had an off night, scoring only two points and committing four turnovers, his team managed to clinch the win. His performance will be closely watched as the season progresses, with hopes high for his development.
Monaco will be eager to regroup and move past this surprising early loss, especially with Mike James’ return on the horizon. For Saint-Quentin, the win signals a solid start to their campaign and positions them as a team capable of upsetting more established opponents in the league.
