MANAGUA (Nicaragua) – Dominican Republic (3-0) stayed in command for most of the game and held off host Nicaragua (0-3) for a 74-70 victory, clinching first place in Group C of the FIBA AmeriCup 2025 with an undefeated record.
The Dominicans had already secured a Quarter-Final berth after Colombia’s win over Nicaragua in the previous round, but they finished the job to head into the playoffs in strong form.
Turning point
Head coach Néstor García’s team controlled the pace despite having a shorter rotation. Still, the home side kept knocking on the door, and the game remained close. Joost West gave Nicaragua some life by cutting the deficit to five (72-67) with 1:21 left, but Ángel Núñez shut down any comeback hopes with a basket of his own (74-67) with only 52 seconds remaining.
TCL player of the game
Núñez led the Dominican offense with 19 points, along with 8 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 1 steal.
Joel Soriano backed him up with 16 points, 7 boards, and 5 blocks. The big man had already recorded 6 swats in the previous outing against Argentina. Jean Montero also stood out with 11 points, 8 assists, and 6 steals.
For the hosts, Norchad Omier once again delivered a superb performance with another double-double of 21 points and 18 rebounds, plus 7 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks. Jared Ruiz and West added 14 and 13 points, respectively.
Stats don’t lie
Despite the shorter rotation, the Dominican bench made the difference, outscoring Nicaragua’s reserves 18-5. Montero spearheaded that second unit.
Bottom line
With this game, the Dominican Republic made it three straight wins. It’s the fifth time the Caribbean squad has put together three or more consecutive victories in a single AmeriCup edition (1989, 2005, 2011, and 2013).
Nicaragua was unable to secure a win in front of their fans, but the team fulfilled their goal of showing a competitive version of themselves. Coached by Puerto Rican David Rosario, the team came in with the least experience and the lowest FIBA ranking (80) in the tournament, but left positive impressions against Colombia and now against the Dominicans. They also proved they have room to grow.
They said
After the game, Montero was pleased with the win but felt the team could have done a bit more.
“This last game was meant to put into practice the concepts we’ve been working on, but I think there was some lack of focus. Personally, I tried to contribute not only with points but in any way I could,” said the reserve guard.
Norchad Omier, who bowed out of the tournament as one of the most productive players with three straight double-doubles, reflected on his performance.
“It means a lot. First, I have to thank God. He gives me strength. My teammates play hard for me, and I play hard for them. Of course, we want a better outcome next time, but I still see it as a blessing,” he said in an interview with FIBA Americas.
On the experience of returning home to play in front of his fans, he added: “I just want to thank all of Nicaragua. I appreciate the way they came out to support us. The love they show is big time. Doing this in front of this crowd is just amazing.”
The forward has become a national idol after five years in the NCAA and an impressive NBA Summer League showing. With this remarkable individual performance at the AmeriCup, he made sure to leave an indelible memory for the local fans.
“Playing on this court, in front of these fans, representing my country, it’s such a blessing. But it is a big responsibility too, because the little kids are watching me, watching all of us. It’s our responsibility to inspire dreamers, so they can dream bigger and accomplish great things.”
FIBA