FIBA Champions League: Monaco makes last four

Banvit wrestled a narrow edgy win off Monaco on the road, claiming a 74-75 win in the FIBA Champions League. However, the Turkish club was not celebrating at the final buzzer as French team Monaco’s victory in Bandirma a week ago meant the club progresses to the semi-final of the competition.

Monaco vs. Banvit, 74-75

After a 77-85 loss last week in the first leg of the FIBA Champions League quarter-final, Banvit needed a nine-point reverse in Monaco this week. The Turkish club managed the victory, but Monaco reigned in the visitors enough to ensure it collected a winning 152-159 aggregate success.

The hosts looked to be flying towards victory and qualification after a massive 28-15 first quarter. While that run ultimately put away Banvit for good, the Turkish team decided to respond and found some Basketball courage. The visitors drained 27 points in the second quarter and Monaco mustered just 9 points as Banvit roared back into the tie. Through halftime, it was 37-42 to Banvit on the night, but Monaco led 122-119. Banvit needed to carry the second quarter momentum into the second half, but the guests were unable to. Monaco topped the third act 15-13 to set up an all-or-nothing fourth quarter. The French team wrapped the contest with a 22-20 frame that finished off the tie.

Gerald Robinson topped the win with 30 points, while Elmedin Kikanovic dropped 15 points and Paul Lacombe secured 11 points.

Andy Rautins paced the losing effort with 19 points, and Tony Taylor struck 14 points.