MIAMI (United States) – Big men Ismael Romero (Real Estelí) and Franklin Hassell (Hebraica Macabi), and point guard José Vildoza (Boca Jrs) were the best performers of the third and last Basketball Champions League Americas Group Stage.

All 3 of them had a 23.5 efficiency rating across the two most recent games.

Romero helped Real Estelí to a 1-1 record in this last stage and a ticket to the Quarterfinals after averaging 20.5 points, shooting a torrid 57 percent from the field (16/28), and 10.5 rebounds.

Hassell proved he’ll be an invaluable piece in the playoffs. The big man averaged 18.0 points and 10.0 rebounds while shooting 61 percent from the field (14/23) and 100 percent from the free throw line (8/8). Despite his team not winning in this latest stage, the Uruguayans were also playing without pressure after punching their ticket to the next round in the first day as Flamengo defeated Boca.

Meanwhile, despite Boca being eliminated, Vildoza helped the Argentinians to a victory in front of their home crowd. The 28-year-old point guard averaged 15.5 points, 8.5 assists, 4.5 rebounds and a steal across the 2 games.

Mexican veteran Gabriel Girón showed his experience and quality while leading Halcones de Xalapa to the top of Group A after a pair of home wins. The 35-year-old forward had a 23.0 efficiency rating thanks to averages of 19.5 points, 63 percent from the field (15/24), 3.0 assists and 1.0 steal.

Another paint player, Ralfi Silva, rounded out the five-man list of top performers. The 36-year-old center did everything he could to get São Paulo to the next round, but despite winning both games at home, the Brazilians were eliminated on point differential. Silva averaged 16.5 points and 8.5 rebounds while shooting 69 percent from the field (11/16).

FIBA