SAN JUAN (Puerto Rico) – Norris Cole and Javonte Smart provided the United States with a crucial six-point lead in the final five minutes, which proved to be just enough as they edged out Puerto Rico 72-71 at Coliseo Roberto Clemente on Thursday night. Every player on the U.S. roster contributed to the win, with each seeing at least five minutes of action.
Turning point
After Puerto Rico took the lead with a 10-0 run in the third quarter, Smart responded with a free throw and a layup, giving the U.S. a six-point cushion with just over five minutes remaining. Rob Baker II tied the game at 64 with a layup before Cole hit a crucial three-pointer to put the U.S. ahead by three with 6:19 left. Smart’s efforts helped extend the lead, which proved vital as Puerto Rico held the U.S. scoreless for the final 3:59 of play.
Player of the game
Smart led the U.S. with 16 points on 50% shooting, including 60% from two-point range. He also knocked down two three-pointers, despite the team struggling from beyond the arc (6-of-28).
He contributed four defensive rebounds, two assists, and committed just one turnover in 29:30 of action.
Jahmi’us Ramsey added 11 points and two rebounds, while Baker controlled the boards with seven rebounds and chipped in six points on 60% shooting.
For Puerto Rico, debutants Markus Howard (17 points) and Tai Odiase (13) led the team.
Stats don’t lie
The game remained tightly contested, featuring nine lead changes and a final margin of just one point. However, turnovers and bench production made the difference for the U.S. Despite Puerto Rico’s strong defensive presence—grabbing 33 defensive rebounds and 45 total—the U.S. outscored them 14-6 in points off turnovers and 32-21 in bench points. Defensively, the U.S. also held the edge in blocks (6-2) and steals (4-3).
Bottom line
With the win, the U.S. officially qualifies for the AmeriCup, leading Group D with a 4-1 record—the only team with more than two wins. They will face fourth-place Bahamas in their next qualifier. Puerto Rico can still qualify if Cuba defeats the Bahamas, otherwise, they will need to beat Cuba in their final game.
FIBA