The Cangrejeros de Santurce opened the Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN) postseason with a 98-92 loss to the Criollos de Caguas on Friday, July 10, 2026 at the Roger Mendoza Coliseum. The series now stands 1-0 in favor of Caguas.

What happened in Game 1?

Caguas dominated from the first quarter. A three-pointer by Hiram Huertas at the buzzer closed the period 31-23 for the home team. Travis Trice already had double-digit scoring after the first ten minutes.

In the second quarter, the Criollos extended their lead. They won the period 24-17 and went into halftime with a comfortable 55-40 advantage. Santurce had no answers on defense.

But the Cangrejeros responded after the break. They won the third quarter 27-21 and cut the deficit to six points (76-67) heading into the final period. A comeback seemed possible.

How did Santurce's comeback attempt unfold?

In the final quarter, Santurce kept closing in. They got within two points (92-90) with one minute to play. But Jeff Early hit a mid-range jumper that restored a four-point lead for the Criollos.

Then Christian “Cuco” López and Travis Trice sealed the win from the free-throw line. The Cangrejeros won the final period 25-22 but couldn't complete the rally. The final score was 98-92.

Who were the top performers?

For Santurce, Ángel Rodríguez led the offense with 22 points, five rebounds and eight assists. Kenneth Faried posted a double-double of 15 points and 12 rebounds, plus five assists. DJ Wilson added 17 points and nine rebounds, while Isaiah Piñeiro finished with 13 points.

For Caguas, Travis Trice led with 32 points, six rebounds and eight assists. Alexander Kappos contributed 13 points and nine rebounds, Christian “Cuco” López added 12 points. Louis King and Moses Brown each finished with 10 points.

What's next for the Cangrejeros de Santurce?

Game 2 of the series will be played Sunday in Santurce. The Cangrejeros need to adjust their defense to prevent Caguas from taking a 2-0 lead. The series is best-of-seven.

In the other game of the night, the Atléticos de San Germán beat the Leones de Ponce 88-75. That series is also 1-0 in favor of San Germán.