In a stunning upset, Real Madrid fell to Paris Basketball with a score of 73-81 in their pivotal play-in game, leaving them with one last chance to secure their spot in the EuroLeague playoffs. The defeat came as the team struggled to maintain their momentum against a Paris squad that has proven to be a formidable opponent throughout the season.
The game, held at the Movistar Arena, saw Paris Basketball take control early, leading 27-22 at the end of the first quarter. T.J. Shorts, the standout player for Paris, showcased his skills with 23 points and 9 assists, orchestrating the game with precision. His teammate Nadir Hifi also contributed significantly, scoring 15 points, while Tyson Ward and Kevarrius Hayes added 11 and 10 points, respectively.
Real Madrid, under the guidance of coach Chus Mateo, was faced with the daunting task of overcoming their inconsistent performance in crucial moments. The team had entered the match riding a wave of six consecutive EuroLeague victories, but the pressure of the play-in scenario proved to be too much. Facundo Campazzo was the brightest spot for Madrid, scoring 17 points, along with 5 assists and 4 rebounds, but it was not enough to turn the tide.
The first half saw Madrid struggle with their rebounding, managing only 13 compared to Paris’s impressive 25. Despite this, the home team managed to keep the game within reach, trailing by just 10 points at halftime (36-46). The second quarter was particularly challenging for Madrid, as they only scored 14 points, a stark contrast to their previous performances.
As the second half commenced, Real Madrid attempted to rally, igniting the crowd with an 8-1 run to bring the score to 44-55. However, Paris quickly responded, and the lead ballooned back up. Madrid's defense was tested repeatedly as Shorts continued to penetrate and create opportunities for his teammates.
In the third quarter, Madrid managed to reduce the deficit to four points (58-62) after a strong defensive effort led by Alberto Abalde and Gaby Deck, who both made significant contributions during this stretch. However, just as Madrid appeared to seize the momentum, Paris struck back with a crucial three-pointer from Hifi, extending their lead back to six points (68-74) with just 2:40 remaining in the game.
Real Madrid's inability to capitalize on their opportunities in the final minutes was evident as they missed several key shots. The pressure mounted, and a string of turnovers allowed Paris to maintain their composure and ultimately secure the victory. In the closing moments, Shorts sealed the deal with free throws, pushing the score to 81-73, forcing Madrid to confront the reality of their situation.
As the clock ran down, the frustration was palpable among the Madrid players and fans alike. The loss marks a significant blow to their EuroLeague aspirations, as they now face a must-win situation against Bayern Munich on Friday, April 18, 2025, to keep their playoff hopes alive. If they manage to win, they would then face Olympiacos in the quarterfinals, a daunting task given the current form of the Greek side.
The upcoming match against Bayern will be crucial for Madrid, who cannot afford any more slip-ups if they wish to remain in contention for the EuroLeague title. Coach Chus Mateo emphasized the need for a strong showing, stating, "We need the support of our fans and to focus on not giving up any plays. This is a final for us." The pressure is certainly on for the storied franchise, as their season hangs in the balance.
In contrast, Paris Basketball's victory marks a significant achievement for the team, who will advance to face Fenerbahce in the playoffs. Coach Tiago Splitter's squad has been one of the surprises of the season, showcasing their exciting style of play and resilience under pressure. Their success against Madrid is a testament to their growth as a competitive force in the EuroLeague.
With the stage set for an intense showdown against Bayern, all eyes will be on Real Madrid as they look to rebound from this disappointment and fight for their place in the postseason.
