2025 FIBA AmeriCup Pre-Qualifiers: Nicaragua edge Costa Rica to advance

Jared Ruiz

Nicaragua - Costa Rica 80-64

Nicaragua clinched the top position in the 2025 FIBA AmeriCup Pre-Qualifiers and therefore advanced into the qualifiers of the tournament. They edged Costa Rica in the decisive game in Managua on Sunday to finish undefeated. Jared Ruiz (188-G-1992) stepped up with 31 points to lead the hosts.
Nicaragua grabbed a 19-15 lead after the first period. They went on a 23-11 run in the second stanza to ensure a 42-26 halftime advantage. Costa Rica managed to narrow the deficit at 12-point mark at the final break. But Nicaragua maintained the lead throughout the fourth stanza and rallied to a key victory at the end. Francisco Garcia (195-PF-2003) added 27 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Victor Arias (198-F-1995) and Daniel Shedden (193-F-1996, college: MSUB) had 17 points each for Costa Rica.