Nelson Colón, a Puerto Rican coach, led Panama to the next round of the FIBA World Cup 2027 qualifiers with an 83-70 win over Cuba. This victory marked Colón's return to coaching after leaving Cangrejeros de Santurce in the Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN) in May. Panama secured third place in Group D with a 2-3 record, while Cuba is out of contention with a 0-5 record.
Uruguay and Argentina lead the group with 4-1 records. Colón expressed his gratitude and satisfaction with the win, citing good execution and teamwork. He was hired by the Panamanian Basketball Federation in January and debuted with the national team in February.
Colón is assisted by fellow Puerto Rican Carlos Rivera, who coaches Leones de Ponce in the BSN. Panama will face Argentina on Sunday to close the first round of qualifiers. The team's offense was led by Ricardo Lindo with 21 points, followed by Iverson Molinar with 18 points and eight assists.