Vaqueros looking to advance to BSN finals tonight

By The Star Staff

The Vaqueros (Cowboys) of Bayamón defeated the Cangrejeros (Crabbers) of Santurce 88-85 on Saturday in the A Conference semifinal series of the 2025 National Superior Basketball Championship (BSN).

The victory put the Vaqueros ahead in the series 3-2. Bayamón will try to advance to the league finals tonight in a game at Roberto Clemente Coliseum in Hato Rey that tips off at 8:15 p.m. If a seventh and deciding game is necessary, it would be played on Wednesday at Rubén Rodríguez Coliseum in Bayamón.

Saturday’s game, held at Rubén Rodríguez Coliseum, began with the visitors building a 48-38 advantage at halftime. However, the Vaqueros adjusted on both ends of the court and managed to tie the score at 62-62 at the end of the third quarter. Bayamón then prevailed in a closely contested final frame to come away with the win.

Christopher Duarte led the Vaqueros with 33 points, three rebounds, two assists and four steals. Gary Browne added 17 points, four rebounds, seven assists and two steals, and JaVale McGee contributed 12 points, four rebounds and two steals.

Kenneth Faried led the Cangrejeros with 19 points and 10 rebounds.

Meanwhile, the Leones of Ponce were looking to close out their Conference B semifinal series against the Indios of Mayagüez on Sunday night at Germán Wilkins Vélez Ramírez Sports and Recreation Center in Mayagüez. The Leones won 91-88 at home on Friday to take a 3-1 series lead.