In a thrilling Dominican Republic Liga Nacional Basketball clash, Titanes del Licey narrowly edged Marineros de Puerto Plata 96-94 on May 3, 2026, in a game that went down to the final possession. The home crowd was treated to a high-octane contest marked by lead changes, clutch shooting, and defensive stops when it mattered most. The one-possession victory kept Titanes del Licey firmly in the thick of the standings race.

Match Overview

The game began at a breakneck pace, with both teams trading baskets and neither able to establish a significant lead in the opening quarter. Marineros de Puerto Plata found their rhythm from beyond the arc in the second period, building a slim advantage at halftime. However, Titanes del Licey responded with renewed defensive intensity in the third quarter, forcing turnovers and converting them into fast-break points to reclaim control heading into the final frame.

Key Moments

• Fourth Quarter Drama: The last five minutes saw four lead changes, with both teams hitting clutch jumpers and free throws under pressure.
• Decisive Stop: With the score tied at 94-94 and under 10 seconds remaining, Titanes forced a tough contested shot from Marineros that missed the mark.
• Game-Winner: Titanes secured the rebound and called timeout, then executed a perfect inbounds play that led to a go-ahead layup with 2.3 seconds left.
• Final Stand: Marineros' desperation heave at the buzzer was off-target, sealing the 96-94 victory for the home side.

Standout Performers

For the Titanes, their leading scorer was ice-cold from the free-throw line in the clutch, but made up for it with a series of strong drives to the rim. The home team’s point guard was instrumental in orchestrating the offense and breaking Puerto Plata’s full-court press. On the visitors’ side, a versatile forward posted a double-double, keeping Marineros in contention with relentless scoring and rebounding.

Season & Standings Context

The narrow win was essential for Titanes del Licey, who continued to jockey for position in the competitive Liga Nacional Basketball playoff race. For Marineros de Puerto Plata, the heartbreaking loss—their second in a row decided by a single possession—demonstrated their competitiveness but also exposed late-game execution issues. This rivalry fixture delivered all the drama fans expect from Dominican basketball.