Round 5: Bucaros hand first loss to Indeportes

Eshaya Murphy

Here is the last round review presented by LBM Management.

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of Indeportes (1-1) on Friday night. Visitors were defeated by Bucaros (2-0) 69-61. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 25-19. But Indeportes won second period 19-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Bucaros won last quarter 12-5. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Indeportes to just 5 points in fourth quarter. They made 21-of-25 free shots (84.0 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Indeportes 46-35 including 34 on the defensive glass. Montenegrin-American swingman Eshaya Murphy (181-1985, college: USC) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 14 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). American center Kai James (196-1995, college: FSU) contributed with 15 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Bucaros' coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Jenifer Munoz (170-1991) answered with 28 points and 7 rebounds for Indeportes. Bucaros maintains first place with 2-0 record. Defending Colombian champion Indeportes keep the second position with one game lost. They share it with Dep.Berazategui. Bucaros are looking forward to face UDJ (#4) in Quininde in the next round. Indeportes will play at home against the league's second-placed Dep.Berazategui and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for Argentinian Dep.Berazategui (1-1) which hosted in Buenos Aires 4th placed Ecuadorian UDJ (0-2). Third ranked Dep.Berazategui had an easy win 53-32. Center Mayra Leiva (185-1996) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and Maria Jourdheuil chipped in 10 points and 7 rebounds. Power forward Lucia Garrido (180-1992) responded with 5 points and 9 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Defending Argentinian champion left bottom position moving up to second place, which they share with Indeportes. Defending Ecuadorian champion UDJ still closes the standings with two games lost. Dep.Berazategui will play against Indeportes (#3) in Antioquia in the next round, which may be the game of the day. UDJ will play at home against the league's leader Bucaros and hopes to get finally their first victory.

The Round Review is presented by LBM Management. A full-service agency focused on Women's basketball sphere and working worldwide. A global and ethical quality service.