MANAGUA (Nicaragua) – Puerto Rico dominated from start to finish in its Group B debut at the FIBA AmeriCup 2025, defeating Panama 93-59 on Friday at the Alexis Arguello Sports Complex in Managua, Nicaragua.
The Puerto Ricans showed why they are considered one of the contenders for the top spots in the tournament. They controlled the boards, the perimeter, and the defense. In addition, five players scored in double digits.
Turning point
The third quarter sealed the game’s fate with a 25-12 run in favor of the winners. With more than six minutes played, Panama had only managed two field goals, and by the end of the stretch, Puerto Rico’s lead had ballooned to 23 points after being just 10 at halftime.
Puerto Rico, through solid ball movement, created high-percentage looks. All of their points in that quarter came from two-pointers or free throws, piling up 18 in the paint. Big men George Conditt IV and Ismael Romero combined for 12 points, while guards José Alvarado and Gary Browne added 6 apiece.
TCL player of the game
Ismael Romero used his physical strength to a great extent against Panama’s frontcourt. The center posted 15 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal. He also knocked down six of his seven field goal attempts and went 3-for-4 from the free throw line.
Another center, George Conditt IV, nearly had a double-double with 12 points and 9 rebounds.
Meanwhile, New Orleans Pelicans guard José Alvarado played 23 minutes, contributing 11 points, 6 assists, and 2 steals. Gian Clavell started slow with just six points through three quarters, but finished with 14. For Panama, Luis Rodríguez led the way with 15 points and 4 rebounds.
Stats don’t lie
Puerto Rico’s defense completely disrupted Panama’s offense, recording 13 steals that translated into 26 points on the other end. That steal total tied the highest team mark in a single game since 2003. Gary Browne led the department with 3, followed by Alvarado (2) and Isaiah Pineiro (2).
They also dominated the paint with 46 rebounds, including 16 offensive boards, compared to their opponent’s 27.
Bottom line
This was Puerto Rico’s ninth win in 11 AmeriCup meetings against Panama. It was also their 101st overall victory in the tournament (second behind Argentina’s 108).
Next, Puerto Rico will face Venezuela, and then Panama against Canada on Saturday.
They said
Puerto Rico head coach Carlos Gonzalez assessed his team’s performance in the post-game press conference:
“We started a little slow, although our defense was there from the beginning. Then we brought more intensity and speed to the game. In the second half, we had our best offensive rhythm.”
FIBA