CIBACOPA Round 1 of Semi-Finals. Astros and Hermosillo record victories

Aaron Valdes

Astros - Culiacan 101-96

Astros looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Astros made 8 blocks. 30 personal fouls committed by Caballeros de Culiacan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American swingman Aaron Valdes (196-1993, college: Hawaii) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!) and 10 rebounds for the winners and his fellow American import Lagerald Vick (196-1997, college: Kansas) chipped in 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Five Astros players scored in double figures. At the losing side Colombian Michaell Jackson (190-1987) responded with 34 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds and American guard Teyvion Kirk (193-1999, college: UIC) scored 18 points and 7 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Astros: A.Valdes 33+10reb+2ast, S.Ponds 17+2reb+6ast, L.Vick 16+5reb+5ast, J.Loveridge 11+4reb+2ast, I.Whaley 11+11reb+1ast, J.Machado 6+6reb
Culiacan: M.Jackson 34+8reb+3ast, T.Kirk 18+7reb+2ast, J.Cumberland 15+7reb+1ast, J.Hughes III 9+9reb, M.Tarrance 8+8reb+4ast, D.Soto 4+1reb+1ast