Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade returned to form on Thursday night with a 91–79 win over AS Monaco, using a decisive final-quarter push to move to 8–3 in the EuroLeague standings.
A short-handed Zvezda entered the matchup without seven rotation players, yet still found enough rhythm and resolve to overcome a 46–42 halftime deficit at the Belgrade Arena.
Ognjen Dobric and recent signing Jared Butler led the charge, combining for 42 points while providing the scoring balance Zvezda needed to close out a demanding game.
Dobric matched his career-high with 22 points on 7-of-9 shooting, anchoring the third-quarter turnaround that gave the hosts control entering the final period.
Butler, who joined the club three weeks ago, powered the late-game separation with 20 points in just over 18 minutes, attacking off the dribble and converting from long range.
Zvezda’s perimeter accuracy proved decisive, as the home side shot 12-of-18 from beyond the arc to offset a 15-of-27 performance at the free-throw line.
Sasa Obradovic’s group also recorded 20 assists against only 11 turnovers, maintaining efficiency despite limited depth.
Monaco, now 6–5, leaned on Mike James’s playmaking and Elie Okobo’s aggression but faded late as Zvezda’s physicality increased.
The visitors shot 33.3% from deep and struggled to generate second-chance opportunities against Zvezda’s rebounding advantage.
Chima Moneke’s absence due to a groin injury further thinned Monaco’s interior rotation, creating openings that Zvezda exploited down the stretch.
Zvezda’s win also reflected the resurgence of core contributors who have taken on expanded responsibilities since Obradovic replaced Ioannis Sfairopoulos following an 0–2 start.
The home crowd responded throughout the night, delivering the atmosphere that often fuels Zvezda’s best performances in Belgrade.
Crvena Zvezda will travel to face Valencia Basket next Friday as it looks to continue its upward trajectory, while Monaco turns its attention to next Wednesday’s meeting with LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne in Round 12.
