MANAGUA (Nicaragua) – Real Estelí dominated the second half and defeated Boca Juniors (97-89) at the Polideportivo Alexis Argüello, tying the BCL Americas Quarterfinal series 1-1 and forcing a decisive third game.
Turning point
Jezreel De Jesús sank two free throws with 31 seconds remaining, extending the lead to two possessions (95-88), which ultimately sealed the game. Before De Jesús’ clutch shots from the foul line, Boca had the chance to cut the deficit to three after recovering a bad pass from Jared Ruiz. However, Franco Georgetti missed an uncontested layup, and with that, the Argentinians’ hopes faded. The home team outscored Boca 51-41 in the second half (28-21 in the fourth quarter).
Player of the game
The De Jesús and Glen Rice Jr. duo combined for 44 points, tipping the scales in Estelí’s favor. The Puerto Rican point guard scored 23 (3-4 3PT) and dished out 7 assists, while the American forward followed with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Center Joao Franca also played a key role for the winners, contributing 16 points and 8 boards. Ruiz added 14, and Gabriel Girón chipped in with 11.
For Boca, Sebastián Vega (10 rebounds) and Colombian Andrés Ibargüen (8 boards) each scored 19 points. Facundo Piñero (4 three-pointers) had 12 points, while Santiago Scala posted 11 along with 10 assists.
Stats don’t lie
Real Estelí was efficient, hitting 51 percent of their shots (35-68) and making the difference inside the paint. They controlled the boards 43-36, outscored Boca in the paint 52-36, and had the edge in second-chance points 16-10.
Bottom line
Both teams will clash again this Saturday at the same venue, with tip-off set for 7:40 pm (local time). Real Estelí will seek their second Final 4 appearance, while Boca aims for their first.
FIBA