BTN News: The Titanes del Distrito Nacional secured a hard-fought 89-85 victory over the Cañeros del Este in the final game of the LNB elimination phase, showcasing a dominant performance on both ends of the court. The game, held at the Polideportivo de San Cristóbal, was marked by intense competition and crucial defensive plays that ultimately sealed the win for the Titanes. With this victory, the Titanes, who finished with a strong 15-9 record, are set to face the Cañeros once again in the semifinals of the tournament. The semifinal series, which promises to be highly competitive, will be a best-of-five showdown.
Romeao Ferguson was the star of the night for the Titanes, leading the charge with an impressive 25 points. His dynamic play was complemented by Richard Bautista, who added 15 points and dished out seven assists, showcasing his playmaking abilities. Jassel Pérez was also pivotal in the win, contributing 17 points, while Jaguan Lightfoot added 12 points and pulled down eight rebounds, ensuring the Titanes remained in control throughout the contest.
The Titanes’ defensive strategy played a crucial role in their triumph. They managed to contain the Cañeros in key moments, particularly in the final quarter, where they outscored their opponents 22-16. The game was closely contested, with the scores tied at 25-25 after the first quarter and the Cañeros holding a slight lead at halftime, 48-45. However, the Titanes’ resilience and tactical adjustments in the second half allowed them to claw back and eventually secure the win.
On the other side, the Cañeros had their own standout performers. Rayner Santana led the team with 21 points, showcasing his scoring prowess. Luis Santos was a force in the paint, recording a double-double with 19 points and 12 rebounds, while Eusebio Suero added 12 points. Matt Herasme also contributed with 11 points, but their efforts fell just short against the determined Titanes.
Meanwhile, in another crucial matchup, the Reales de La Vega clinched the top spot in the elimination phase by defeating the Metros de Santiago 104-93. This victory, achieved at the Palacio de los Deportes Fernando Teruel, was significant for the Reales as it ensured home-court advantage for the semifinals. The Reales finished the elimination phase with a 16-8 record, setting the stage for an exciting semifinal series against the Metros, who ended in fourth place with a 14-10 record.
The Reales’ success was fueled by a balanced offensive effort, with Sterling Manley leading the way with 23 points and 12 rebounds. Nazhiah Carter also had a stellar performance, contributing 21 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. The debutants Gelvis Solano and Raphiael Putney made immediate impacts as well. Solano, the reigning MVP, scored 14 points and added four rebounds and five assists, while Putney chipped in with nine points and three rebounds.
The Metros, despite the loss, had solid contributions from Jeff Allen, who recorded a double-double with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Luis Reynoso scored 18 points, and Sir’ Jabari Rice and VÃctor Liz each added 11 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Reales’ offensive onslaught.
As the LNB semifinals approach, all eyes will be on these top teams as they vie for a place in the finals. The Titanes and Cañeros will renew their rivalry in what promises to be a thrilling series, while the Reales and Metros will battle it out in a highly anticipated clash. With the stakes higher than ever, each team will need to bring their A-game to advance and continue their quest for the championship.
