Barça 88-83 AS Monaco: Winning run continues

The run goes on! It wasn't easy, but Barça were all smiles after this tough, combative, and evenly matched EuroLeague game against AS Monaco (88-83). Exum was full of energy, scoring 22 points, and Calathes pulled the strings, becoming the EuroLeague career leader in assists in the process. Barça tightened their grip on first place in Europe in what was their 12th consecutive win. 

Even start

The stage was set from the off. Barça and AS Monaco took to the court in the Palau Blaugrana looking to score. Baskets were being exchanged and neither could manage to pull clear. Sanli, Nigel Hayes and Exum were pushing for points for the home side during an even and frenetic start. Laprovittola helped open up an 8 point lead towards the end of the first half, enabling Barça to go in 42-36 at the break. 

Calathes pulled the strings and Barça took advantage

Calathes was making the difference, while also becoming EuroLeague career leader in assists to boot. The pressure was paying off and the number 99 was leading the way, with Exum and a Mirotic three-pointer extending the lead to +16. However, although the third quarter started off well for Barça, Monaco reacted and cut the difference to just four points by the end of the quarter. 

Pressure resisted in a tough final quarter

Monaco continued pushing, drawing level and even taking the lead at one point. However, Barça's number 1 brought the energy, Davies showed character and the Palau roared louder. Baskets were exchanged but the win was ultimately secured and smiles spread across faces. The 12th win in a row and now 21 for the European season to remain table toppers.

GAME STATS

Barça, 88
Mònaco, 83

Barça: Calathes (10), Laprovittola (7), Exum (22), Mirotic (11) and Sanli (9) - starters - Sergi Martínez (-), Jokubaitis (7), Kuric (2), Hayes (9) and Davies (11)
Mònaco: James (19), Westermann (8), Will Thomas (6), Motiejunas (14) and Diallo (10) - starters - Paris Lee (2), Bacon (16), Donta, (6), Motum (2), Boutsiele (-) and Ouatarra (-)

Quarters: 20-20; 22-16 // 24-26; 22-21

Referees: Borys Ryzhyk, Anne Panther and Luka Kardum