Indios (Gigantes) Edge Immortals, 73-71, in Friendly Cup Game

Indios (Gigantes) Edge Immortals, 73-71, in Friendly Cup Game

SAN FRANCISCO DE MACORÍS –

Defending LDC champion GIE Cibao Immortals gave LNB powerhouse Indios de San Francisco (Gigantes) a strong battle on Tuesday night, but came up just short in a 73-71 loss in Friendly Cup action.

Despite entering the game as favorites, Gigantes had to work until the final moments to secure the two-point victory. The former LNB champions are using the preseason to prepare for the 2026 campaign, and scheduled the exhibition matchup against the defending LDC champions as part of that process.

The contest was entertaining from start to finish. Gigantes rested most of their import players, using the game as an opportunity to evaluate their young talent in a competitive setting.

Juan Rosario (203-F/C-1999) led the way for Indios de San Francisco, finishing with 15 points and 9 rebounds in 30 minutes of action. For the Immortals, Ameth Gil (191-SG-1988) and Edwin Espinal (198-SF-1996) were the bright spots, scoring 20 points each in the losing effort.

The Immortals held a 10-point lead in the third quarter, but Gigantes showed their experience in the closing moments of the fourth to complete the comeback.

“It was a great experience for our club,” said Jermaine Barnes. “The Gigantes Basketball Club are very professional and treated us with class and respect. I enjoyed their fans and the high level of competition.”

The Immortals will now turn their attention to the 3rd Annual Felipe Lopez Cup, scheduled for April 10-11 in Santiago. The LDC Superior League Final is set for April 13 in Moca.

Gigantes, meanwhile, will open their 2026 LNB season on April 15 against Leones de Santo Domingo. Import player and ABASACA Player of the Year BJ Fitzgerald (198-G-2000, college: Virginia St.) is expected to join the team this week as preparations continue for the season opener. Head coach Victor Peña remains optimistic about the club’s outlook.

“It was a pleasure to host the Immortals last night,” said Peña. “This was a great time to test our draft picks and rookies. We are getting our full team this week, so we are hopeful for a successful campaign.”

The Gigantes Basketball Club last won the LNB championship in 2019.