Welcome to the U17 Women’s Basketball Center Championship, brought to you by FIBA - The Basketball Channel. In this article, we will be covering the second game of the opening day between Costa Rica and Puerto Rico. Both teams are ready to face off against each other in this highly anticipated matchup. The championship is being held at the Alexis Argüello Sports Center in Managua, Nicaragua.
Group A consists of the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Mexico, while Group B includes Costa Rica, Guatemala, Panama, and Puerto Rico. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals, and the top three teams overall will qualify for the 2024 U18 Women’s Championship of the Americas. Costa Rica and Puerto Rico are both vying for a place in the semifinals and hope to secure a spot in the 2024 championship.
Costa Rica, coached by Fabián Díaz and assisted by Natalia Gálvez, is fielding a strong team with players such as Génesis Villegas, María Ramírez, Mariana Benavides, Kiara Chávez, and Amanda Rojas. On the other hand, Puerto Rico, led by Pamela Rosado and Taira Meléndez, features talents like Camila de pulque, Yaida Guerra, Dayan Crespo, and Olivia White.
As the game begins, Puerto Rico wins the first possession. However, Costa Rica quickly takes control and starts scoring. Mariana Benavides, María Ramírez, and María Montero provide crucial points for Costa Rica, giving them an early lead of 8-0. Puerto Rico responds with a three-pointer from Desiree Nieves, narrowing the gap to 8-3. Nevertheless, Costa Rica continues to dominate, with Montero leading the charge. The Costa Rican fans in attendance at the Alexis Argüello Sports Center cheer on their team as they extend their lead to 10-3.
Puerto Rico tries to find their rhythm, but Costa Rica’s strong defense and effective offense make it difficult for them. The game continues with both teams fighting hard, but it’s clear that Costa Rica has the upper hand. They maintain their lead and finish strong, ultimately defeating Puerto Rico with a final score of 76-39.
Costa Rica’s victory in this matchup is a testament to their skill and teamwork. The players showcased their talent and dedication on the court, impressing both fans and spectators. The win puts them in a good position for the rest of the championship, and they aim to continue their success in future games.
Overall, the Costa Rica v Puerto Rico game was a thrilling display of skill and passion. The teams fought hard, but it was Costa Rica who emerged victorious. With their dominant performance, Costa Rica has proven that they are a force to be reckoned with in the U17 Women’s Basketball Center Championship.
