GEVP Holds Off Náutico Hacoaj 82-80 in Argentina Liga B Thriller

In a clash of Argentina Liga B contenders on May 16, 2026, GEVP (Gimnasia y Esgrima de Villa Pueyrredón) edged Náutico Hacoaj 82-80 in a wild contest that featured 10 lead changes and 7 ties. The back-and-forth affair at Estadio GEVP showcased the depth and competitiveness of Argentina's second-tier basketball league.

Match Overview

From the outset, both teams displayed fluid offense. GEVP jumped to a 25-20 lead after the first quarter, powered by hot shooting from swingman Facundo Romero. But Náutico Hacoaj responded in the second, using a full-court press to force turnovers and climb back. By halftime, the visitors led 45-44.

The third quarter became a battle of wills. GEVP center Matías López imposed his will in the paint, scoring 12 points in the period, while Náutico's guard Diego Núñez countered with deft finishes in transition. The score stood at 64-62 in favor of GEVP entering the fourth.

Key Performances

• Facundo Romero (GEVP) – 24 points, 6 assists, 4 steals. Romero was the game's offensive engine, creating shots both for himself and teammates.
• Matías López (GEVP) – 18 points, 13 rebounds (5 offensive). López dominated the glass and converted second-chance opportunities.
• Diego Núñez (Náutico Hacoaj) – 22 points, 7 assists. Núñez kept Náutico in the game with his quickness and playmaking.

Turning Point

With 1:30 left and GEVP clinging to an 80-78 lead, Romero stripped Núñez near midcourt and fed a streaking Lautaro Pérez for an easy layup. That four-point advantage proved crucial when Náutico's Emilio Ríos drained a two-pointer with 20 seconds left to cut the deficit to 82-80. GEVP then survived a missed game-tying three-pointer at the buzzer.

Free Throw Drama

GEVP's inability to put the game away from the free throw line (they shot 15-of-24, 62.5%) kept Náutico alive. However, the home team's defensive stops in the final minute compensated for those misses.

Season Impact

The win improves GEVP's record to 14-5, solidifying their position among the top seeds in the Liga B. Náutico Hacoaj falls to 12-7 but remains a strong playoff contender. The two teams will meet again in two weeks, and this narrow result suggests another tight contest awaits.