BUENOS AIRES (Argentina) – Argentina wanted to begin the Second Round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifiers by making it clear that the team is ready for competition. They proved this against a strong opponent, delivering a performance that gives the team a reason to dream big. Pablo Prigioni’s side defeated Puerto Rico 89-75 on Thursday, answering the challenge of facing one of the region’s historic teams at home. Puerto Rico featured several of their top players, including NBA players Jose Alvarado and Ethan Thompson, as well as George Conditt IV and Ismael Romero. Argentina, which failed to qualify for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, now looks like a team ready to fight for a place among the best once again. The win over Puerto Rico was a statement of intent and, above all, proof that the team has found a collective identity built around several key players.
Gabriel Deck led the offense with 23 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists, while Facundo Campazzo once again took control of the game with 13 points, 10 assists and 5 steals. Leandro Bolmaro, following his standout performance in the previous window, maintained his high level with 19 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 blocks and 1 steal. Nicolas Laprovittola, despite not having his best shooting night, contributed 12 points. Beyond the individual numbers, Deck highlighted Argentina’s ability to share responsibilities and find the teammate in the best position. “I think the team has been growing with every training session. We’re practicing better. We know each other much better with the younger players, while those of us who have been around longer have played together for a long time, but now we’re improving step by step,” Deck said.
The Real Madrid forward also praised the philosophy Prigioni is trying to instill in the group. “Anyone can score, defend or be the star, but what matters is the team. That’s what the coach always emphasizes: we always have to look for the teammate, and today we did that. That’s why I think we deserved the win against a great opponent,” he explained.
The result moved Argentina to 6-1, alone in second place in Group F and just one win behind undefeated Canada (7-0). The two teams will face each other on Monday, August 31, in Canada, in a matchup that will put the Albiceleste’s credentials to the test. Argentina has no intention of traveling merely to compete. “We have the desire to compete at the highest level and give 100 percent. We held a great opponent to 75 points with great defense, and then we played well offensively. We’re capable of much more. We’re excited to go to Canada and win there as well. We’re not settling,” Deck said. Puerto Rico, however, fell to 2-5 and dropped to fifth place in Group F, behind the Bahamas (3-4), meaning the team will need to bounce back quickly in the next game.
FIBA