CALI (Colombia) – Toros del Valle set the tone early with a dominant first quarter and never relinquished their lead, securing an 82-72 victory over Real Esteli in a Group A matchup of the Basketball Champions League Americas at Coliseo Evangelista Mora in Cali, Colombia. With the win, Toros evened their record at home and created a three-way tie in the group, with all three teams now sitting at 2-2.
Turning Point
Toros came out firing, storming to a commanding 32-13 lead in the opening quarter. Controlling the boards, pushing the pace in transition, and capitalizing on their opponent’s mistakes, they stayed in control throughout the game. Real Esteli fought back in every quarter but was unable to complete the comeback. The Nicaraguan squad got within five points (75-70) after a layup by Francisco Garth with 1:14 remaining, but Toros responded immediately. Tonny Trocha knocked down two clutch free throws, and Michaell Wright delivered the dagger three-pointer that pushed the lead back to double digits (80-70) with just 31 seconds left on the clock.
Player of the Game
Coming off the bench, forward Luis Almanza was the X-factor for Toros, posting a double-double with 17 points, 13 rebounds, and two steals. Soren De Luque and Wright also registered double-doubles, each finishing with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Jackson contributed five assists.
Point guard Christian Pizarro became the fourth Toros player with a double-double, tallying 12 points and 10 assists, while Benito Santiago Jr. added 11 points. For Real Esteli, Jared Ruiz (20 points), Jezreel De Jesus (17), and Gabriel Girón (11) led the offensive effort.
Stats Don’t Lie
Toros dominated the rebounding battle 52-38 and took full advantage in transition, outscoring Real Esteli 20-10 on fast-break points. Despite committing just one fewer turnover than their opponents (13-12), the home team converted those mistakes into 28 points, compared to just 12 for Real Esteli.
Bottom Line
Group A proved to be the most competitive in the tournament’s Group Phase. With all three teams tied at 2-2, everything will be decided in Medellin, Colombia home of Paisas from February 5 to 7. The top two teams will advance to the Quarterfinals.
FIBA