Real Madrid: Maledon shines in crucial EuroLeague victory

Real Madrid Basketball delivered a much-needed response after a narrow defeat to Milan, overcoming Paris Basketball with a commanding performance at the Movistar Arena. The Spanish side, led by coach Sergio Scariolo, showcased their resilience and determination to bounce back, with Théo Maledon emerging as the standout player. In just 24 minutes on the court, the French point guard scored 21 points, marking his best statistical performance since joining the club and contributing significantly to the historic milestone of the one-millionth point in EuroLeague history.

Maledon’s electrifying display was not only a personal triumph but also a reflection of the collective effort that Real Madrid needed after their recent setback. In an emotional post-match interview, he expressed how playing at home invigorated him: “Playing at home is always a plus. And personally, facing a French team adds an extra layer for me.” The atmosphere in the arena was charged, and Maledon thrived under the pressure, especially with familiar faces among the opposition, such as friends Hifi and Mbaye.

Collective Response to Adversity

The victory against Paris Basketball was more than just a win; it was a statement of intent from Real Madrid. Following their loss to Milan, Maledon emphasized the importance of regrouping: “We really needed a reaction. After losing to Milan, we had to return to our fundamentals—defend harder and play with more intensity.” His words resonated within the locker room, highlighting a renewed focus on defensive strategies that transformed their gameplay after halftime.

Turning Point in the Fourth Quarter

The decisive moment came in the fourth quarter when Real Madrid intensified their defensive efforts and regained control of the match’s tempo. Maledon noted, “We managed to elevate our game throughout the match, especially in the fourth quarter. Now, we need to make this our standard for 40 minutes.” This commitment to sustained performance is crucial as they aim to regain momentum in EuroLeague competition.

This victory not only revitalizes Real Madrid’s campaign but also positions them for future challenges ahead. With Théo Maledon finding his rhythm and increasingly embracing his role within the team, there is a renewed sense of optimism surrounding the club. As they look forward to upcoming matches, one question remains: can they maintain this level of intensity and consistency moving forward?