AS Monaco Basket unveiled their plans for the 2024-25 season at a press conference held at the Automobile Club de Monaco. The team aims for continued dominance in France and strong performances in the EuroLeague, despite some preseason challenges.
AS Monaco Basket recently held their annual preseason press conference at the prestigious Automobile Club de Monaco, offering a detailed preview of the 2024-25 season.
The event provided an opportunity for journalists to view the team’s new jerseys and engage with key figures including club president Alexey Fedorychev, general manager Oleksiy Yefimov, head coach Sasa Obradovic, and players Nick Calathes, Elie Okobo, and Donatas Motiejunas.
Alexey Fedorychev outlined the club’s ambitious goals, emphasizing the long-term aim of establishing AS Monaco as a mainstay in the EuroLeague.
“Our objective is to consistently compete at the highest level and grow as a club,” Fedorychev stated. He highlighted the team's commitment to maintaining a strong work ethic and ambition, which he believes are crucial for achieving their vision.
"Our goal is to have long-term participation in the EuroLeague. We are not just here for the short term; we aim to be a permanent part of the league now and in the future. While we are still relatively new in our European journey, we have already shown that we can compete at the highest level with attractive and exciting basketball," he added.
"Our goal now, as a united Monaco family, is to maintain and make this a lasting and sustainable project. The team’s culture, which is built on strong work ethics and ambition, will continue to be the foundation for everything we do. These pillars will help us deliver on our long-term vision," Fedorychev concluded.
Oleksiy Yefimov echoed these ambitions, focusing on both domestic and European targets.
“Our goal is to dominate in France and maintain our performance in the EuroLeague,” Yefimov said.
He noted the team’s consistent playoff appearances over the past three seasons and expressed confidence in their ability to continue this trend.
Yefimov also discussed the team’s potential acquisition of Paris Lee.
“It’s true that we’ve contacted ASVEL for Paris Lee and that there are discussions, but nothing’s done. He’s one of the names we’re interested in, but there are other names too. There’s nothing done yet!”
Head coach Sasa Obradovic discussed the challenges facing the team, particularly the impact of injuries and a less-than-ideal preseason.
“Our preparation has not been perfect, and we are still working to achieve our best form,” Obradovic admitted. Despite these hurdles, he expressed optimism about the team’s potential in the EuroLeague and domestic competition.
New recruit Nick Calathes shared his reasons for joining Monaco and his expectations for the season.
“I chose Monaco to pursue titles and bring my experience to the team,” Calathes said.
He expressed confidence in the team’s potential to reach the Final Four and emphasized his commitment to contributing to their success.
Elie Okobo and Donatas Motiejunas also voiced their excitement and determination for the upcoming season, underscoring their shared goals and readiness to face tough competition.
The conference concluded with remarks from Stefan Schey, Brand Manager at Spalding Europe, who highlighted the company’s partnership with AS Monaco Basket.
“We are excited about our collaboration and look forward to further projects that blend style and performance,” Schey stated.
Overall, AS Monaco Basket is gearing up for a season filled with high expectations and significant aspirations, both on the domestic and European fronts.
