SAN JUAN. – In a duel filled with intensity and Caribbean pride, the Puerto Rico national team defeated Dominican Republic this Sunday 87-80 in overtime, in a scrimmage match held at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum as preparation for the FIBA AmeriCup 2025, which will be held from August 22 to 31 in Managua, Nicaragua.

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Point guard José Alvarado emerged as the figure of the match with 25 points, including seven in overtime, leading the Puerto Ricans in the first presentation under the direction of the new coach Carlos González. The New Orleans Pelicans player, who had already represented the country in the 2023 FIBA World Cup and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, now assumed a leading role as the absolute leader on the court. Also standing out for Puerto Rico was Ysmael Romero, who shone with a double-double of 17 points and 22 rebounds, while Isaiah Piñeiro contributed 14 units. On the Dominican side, the team led by Néstor “Che” García was spearheaded by Jassel Pérez with 21 points, followed by Andrés Feliz (15) and Ángel Delgado (12).

The game remained close from start to finish. Dominicana forced overtime thanks to the cold blood of Pérez, who converted three free throws after being fouled on a three-point attempt with only three seconds left on the clock. However, in overtime Alvarado reappeared, stringing together seven consecutive points to seal the game.

Both teams shot for a 41% field, but the big difference was in the low 15% in three-pointers of the Dominicans (5 of 32), which ended up taking its toll.