Mike James and Monaco managed to defeat ASVEL Villeurbanne in Game 1 of the French League Finals (74-82) and “steal” the home-court advantage.
The American star guard had 17 points, on 6/18 shooting, while four more players scored in double figures for the winners. On the other hand, Elie Okobo was the best player of the losing squad with 17 points and six rebounds.
Monaco took control from the opening tip and never looked back. Playing excellent on both ends, they led by 19 midway through the second quarter (27-46) and endured the hosts’ comeback in the second half.
ASVEL cut the deficit to four early in the third (45-49), but the Monegasques brought the lead back to double digits and went on to win the game.
The series remains at Astroballe for Game 2 on Friday, with ASVEL aiming to bounce back and earn its first victory in the Finals.