José Alvarado Leads Puerto Rico Over Dominican Republic in Friendly Matchup Ahead of FIBA AmeriCup

In an intense friendly match ahead of the FIBA AmeriCup 2025, Puerto Rico emerged victorious over the Dominican Republic, 87-80, in extra time, at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum. José “Johan” Alvarado, a key player for Puerto Rico, scored a remarkable 25 points, including seven in overtime, to secure the win.

Alvarado’s Historic Debut with New Coach

This victory marked Alvarado’s debut with the Puerto Rican national team under the guidance of new head coach Carlos González, taking the helm following the conclusion of the last Olympic cycle. The “Caribbean Classic” friendly was held just days before the continental tournament, set to commence on August 22 in Managua, Nicaragua.

Balanced Effort from Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s offensive prowess was led by an impressive performance from Alvarado, but it was a balanced effort from the entire team that secured the win. Ysmael Romero contributed a double-double with 17 points and 22 rebounds, while Iseah Piñeiro added 14 points. Notable performances were also turned in by Jassel Pérez (21 points), Andrés Happy (15 points), and Angel Delgado (12 points) on the losing Dominican Republic side.

ماري在这个比赛中的贡献

Although Puerto Rico started the game without star player André Curbelo, who was ruled out due to appendicitis, their efforts paid off as they dominated the glass, outrebounding the Dominicans 54-40. Both teams shot 41% from the field, but Puerto Rico’s dominance on the boards and solid free-throw shooting (22/23) proved to be the difference.

González Reflects on the Match and Upcoming Tournament

“I think we did a great job defensively for the level we are right now,” said Coach González post-game. “We had about seven practices and this is our first game, so we were trying to find our rhythm offensively. We will try to fall into rhythm as soon as possible because the AmeriCup is a short tournament.”

Turning the Game Around

With the game knotted at 71-71 in regulation, a missed late-game free throw by Puerto Rico’s Browne sent the match into overtime. Alvarado took over in the extra frame, scoring seven critical points to lead Puerto Rico to victory.

Looking Ahead to the FIBA AmeriCup

Puerto Rico will look to carry this momentum into the upcoming FIBA AmeriCup, with their new coach and talented roster ready to compete on the international stage.

FAQs

• When does the FIBA AmeriCup 2025 begin? The tournament starts on August 22, 2025, in Managua, Nicaragua.
• Who is the current head coach of the Puerto Rican national basketball team? Carlos González took the reins of the adult program after the last Olympic cycle ended.
• What was the outcome of the friendly match between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic? Puerto Rico won the match 87-80 in extra time.