The potential scenario of Nick Calathes and Mike James teaming up in the future adds an intriguing layer to their playoff matchup, which could prove decisive in determining the outcome of the Monaco vs. Fenerbahce series.

Credit: ZUMAPRESS.com/Scanpix, T.Adanali - Getty Images/BasketNews Illustration
Credit ZUMAPRESS.com/Scanpix, T.Adanali - Getty Images/BasketNews Illustration

The AS Monaco vs. Fenerbahce BEKO Istanbul playoff series will feature a player in the EuroLeague GOAT conversation, the single-game points record holder, and one of the most creative point guards in the history of the competition.

With two pretty evenly matched teams facing each other, this unpredictable best-of-five series promises to have it all.

BasketNews explains why the Monaco vs. Fenerbahce series might become your favorite to watch in the playoffs.

Rivals or future teammates?

Two EuroLeague all-timers, good friends, and potential future teammates are about to clash in the captivating Fenerbahce-Monaco series.

Mike James and Nick Calathes conquer the all-time EuroLeague records, each reigning supreme in three major statistical categories. Recently, James claimed the title of all-time leading scorer in EuroLeague history, while Calathes holds the top spots for assists and steals.

Monaco   Fenerbahce
23-11 Regular season record 20-14
#3 Standings #6
1-1 Head-to-head 1-1
9-1 Last 10 games 5-5
Mike James 18.7 Top scorer Nigel Hayes-Davis 14.5
Mike James 4.2 Top rebounder Nigel Hayes-Davis 4.7
Mike James 5.1 Assists leader Nick Calathes 4.9

Beyond their impressive achievements, James and Calathes share a deep mutual respect and friendship. With Calathes approaching free agency on an expiring contract, Monaco—a team exploring guard reinforcements for the future—has its sights set

Donatas Urbonas
Donatas Urbonas
Senior Staff Writer
Donatas Urbonas is an award-winning Lithuanian basketball journalist, recognized as the best sports journalist in Lithuania in 2016 and the top basketball journalist in 2018. A Vilnius University journalism graduate, Urbonas has reported on major global sports events, including the Rio 2016 and Paris 2024 Olympics, FIBA World Cups, EuroBaskets, NBA Summer League, and NBA Draft.
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