The Puerto Rico women's national basketball team defeated the US Virgin Islands 81-75 in their debut at the Centrobasket Qualifier for the FIBA AmeriCup 2027. Despite the absence of guard Arella Guirantes due to an injury, Puerto Rico dominated most of the game, leading by 14 points at the end of the third quarter. However, the US Virgin Islands rallied in the final period, taking the lead 75-74 with 1:09remaining.
Puerto Rico responded with a 7-0 run to secure the victory. Zaida González led the team with 21 points, three rebounds, and four assists. Other key contributors included Brianna Jones with 14 points, Tayra Meléndez with 11 points and nine rebounds, and Imani McGee-Stafford with eight points and 13 rebounds.
Pamela Rosado scored four of the team's last seven points, including two free throws that helped seal the win. Anisha George led the US Virgin Islands with 28 points and 12 rebounds. Puerto Rico will face Guyana tomorrow at 4:30 p.m. local time, with the game broadcast on Wapa Deportes.