After a missed opportunity in regulation, Puerto Rico made sure it took care of business against South Sudan in overtime, securing a 101-96 victory to kick-start their FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Group B campaign at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.
With only 10 seconds left in the fourth quarter, Carlik Jones took matters into his own hands, launching a three-pointer from the top of the key to tie the game at 81-all.
On the other end, Dut Jok Kacuol fouled Ismael Romero during a tip-in attempt with a mere 0.3 seconds remaining. However, Romero failed to capitalize on both free throws, sending the game into overtime.
In the extra period, Stephen Thompson Jr. orchestrated Los Magnificos’ fiery 10-1 rally, sinking two three-pointers in that span and giving his team a 91-82 lead with 2:37 remaining.
This surge proved sufficient to fend off South Sudan, who were making their World Cup debut.
Thompson Jr. concluded the match with 21 points, 13 rebounds, five steals, and four assists, leading Puerto Rico’s offensive charge. Tremont Waters contributed 19 points, 10 assists, and three steals, while George Conditt recorded 18 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks.
Despite Carlik Jones’ impressive 38-point performance for South Sudan, his efforts were in vain as his team collapsed in the endgame, relinquishing a seven-point advantage (74-67) late in the fourth quarter. Jones also managed 11 assists and four steals.
Wenyen Gabriel of the LA Lakers contributed 15 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks, while Kacuol added 13 points.
Puerto Rico’s next match is against China on Monday at 4:00 p.m., while South Sudan faces Serbia later that day at 8:00 p.m., both at the same venue.
The Scores:
Puerto Rico 101 – Thompson Jr. 21, Waters 19, Conditt 18, Romero 16, Pineiro 14, Howard 11, Holland 2, Ford 0, Reyes 0, Ortiz 0, Barea 0.
South Sudan 96 – Jones 18, Gabriel 15, Kacuol 13, Omot 11, Deng 6, Dech 2, Shayok 0, Kuany 0, bar 0.
Quarterscores: 29-24, 42-52, 60-67, 81-81, 101-96
