Puerto Rico is on the verge of missing the FIBA World Cup for the first time since 1982 after losing to Canada in the start of the third qualifying window. The national team has participated in the last 10 editions of the tournament, but this streak may come to an end on Monday when they face Bahamas in Nassau.
Puerto Rico currently occupies the fourth and last position in Group B with a 1-4 record, while Canada leads with a 5-0 record. To advance, Puerto Rico must defeat Bahamas, and if Jamaica loses to Canada, a triple tie would occur, eliminating Jamaica due to point differential. However, completing this mission will be challenging, as Bahamas has strengthened its team with players like Buddy Hield and Eric Gordon.
Puerto Rico’s general manager, Carlos Arroyo, has had to make adjustments due to the surprising retirement of Tremont Waters and the unavailability of José Alvarado, who recently signed a three-year contract with the Knicks worth over $14 million.