PR downs DR in straight sets at NORCECA Final Six

Looking to shift the momentum after a close-fought opening match against host Mexico, Team Puerto Rico defeated the Dominican Republic in straight sets on Tuesday night at the NORCECA Women’s Final Six in Guadalajara.

By THE STAR STAFF

The Puerto Rico Women’s National Volleyball Team secured its first win at the 2025 NORCECA Women’s Final Six, defeating the Dominican Republic in straight sets, 25-16, 25-16 and 25-21, on Tuesday night in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico.

After a hard-fought five-set loss to Mexico in their opening match, the Boricuas came out looking to shift the momentum. With two sets already in hand, they maintained their rhythm in the third and sealed the victory early.

A powerful back-row attack from Valeria Vázquez, followed by another from Decelise Champion, extended Puerto Rico’s lead to 16-8, marking the turning point of the third set. The set point came after a Dominican service error that made it 24-21, and Vázquez closed the match with a sharp spike from zone four.

With the win, Puerto Rico improved to 1-1 in the tournament with its next match against Canada slated for Wednesday night.

Match highlights:

* Blocking: Puerto Rico prevailed at the net with 9 blocks to the Dominican Republic’s 6.

* Service aces: The Boricuas recorded 4 aces compared to just 1 by their opponents.

* Top scorers for Puerto Rico: Vázquez and Champion led with 11 points each, followed by Diana Carolina Reyes with 10.

* Top scorer for the Dominican Republic: Madeline Jazmín Guillén Paredes stood out with 16 points.