In a thrilling EuroLeague play-in showdown, Paris Basketball stunned Real Madrid with an impressive performance, securing an 81-73 victory on April 15, 2025, at the Movistar Arena. This victory not only marked a significant moment for Paris, who advanced to the playoffs for the first time in their EuroLeague debut season, but it also sent shockwaves through the basketball community given Madrid's status as the favorites.
Real Madrid entered the match riding high on a wave of momentum, boasting 12 consecutive wins and a strong record of 20-14 in the EuroLeague regular season. The team, led by coach Chus Mateo, had been in scintillating form, recently defeating CB Canarias 68-79 in the Liga Endesa, with Mario Hezonja contributing 16 points to the effort. However, the stakes were high, as the winner of this play-in game would secure a place in the playoffs against Fenerbahce BEKO, while the loser would face Bayern Munich for a second chance.
From the opening tip-off, Paris demonstrated their intent, quickly establishing a lead. After a closely contested first quarter, Paris completed an 11-3 run, finishing the period ahead 27-22. The second quarter saw Paris extend their lead to 31-24, prompting a Madrid timeout. Despite efforts from Facundo Campazzo and Gabriel Deck, who managed to score 17 and 10 points respectively, Madrid struggled to keep pace with the French side.
TJ Shorts was the standout performer for Paris, leading the charge with 23 points and nine assists, while fellow teammates Nadir Hifi and Tyson Ward contributed 15 and 11 points respectively. Shorts' performance was pivotal, especially as he orchestrated the offense and created scoring opportunities. "That sounds amazing, we did the hard way by going to the play-ins but now we got the ticket and we have to enjoy it," Shorts remarked after the game, reflecting on the team's remarkable achievement.
As the game progressed, Madrid attempted to claw back into contention, trimming a 13-point deficit down to just six points at one stage. However, Paris responded each time, maintaining their composure and executing their game plan effectively. The third quarter ended with Madrid completing a 9-0 run, bringing the score to 62-58, but they could never fully capitalize on the momentum.
In the final quarter, the tension escalated as Madrid cut the lead to just one point at 67-68, but Paris quickly regained control and extended their advantage to eight points at 79-71. Despite Madrid's efforts, time was not on their side, and the game concluded with Paris emerging victorious.
In terms of statistics, Real Madrid shot 32 out of 39 from two-point range (51.28%) and struggled with their three-point shooting, making only 7 out of 27 attempts (25.93%). They managed to hit 12 out of 18 free throws (66.67%) and secured 35 total rebounds. In contrast, Paris shot 17 out of 32 from two-point range (53.13%) and 11 out of 31 from beyond the arc (35.48%), with an impressive 14 out of 16 from the free-throw line (87.50%). Both teams grabbed 35 rebounds, but Paris excelled defensively with five blocks to Madrid's none.
Looking ahead, Real Madrid will have another chance to secure a playoff spot when they face Bayern Munich on April 18, 2025. The stakes are high, as the winner of that encounter will advance to face Olympiacos in a best-of-five series. Madrid's fans will be hoping for a strong response from their team, who will need to regroup quickly after this unexpected defeat.
This match not only showcased the unpredictability of playoff basketball but also highlighted the emergence of Paris Basketball as a formidable contender in the EuroLeague. With their first playoff appearance secured, the team will look to build on this momentum and challenge for further glory.
