Paisas Hold Off Cimarrones in Hard-Fought Liga de Baloncesto Battle

In a tightly contested Liga de Baloncesto matchup on May 10, 2026, the Paisas edged the Cimarrones del Choco 86-79 in front of an energetic home crowd. The victory improved the Paisas' record to 5-3, keeping them in the upper half of the league standings.

The game featured multiple lead changes in the first half, with neither team able to establish a double-digit advantage. However, the Paisas used a strong third quarter, outscoring the Cimarrones 28-18, to seize control. Their defensive adjustments limited Cimarrones' top scorer to just 14 points, well below his season average of 22.

Key Performers and Game Flow

Forward José Martínez led the Paisas with 22 points and 10 rebounds, recording his third double-double of the season. Point guard Carlos Ruiz added 18 points and 8 assists, while center Andrés Herrera anchored the defense with 3 blocks. The Cimarrones fought back in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to 4 points with 2 minutes remaining, but the Paisas made crucial free throws down the stretch to secure the win.

For the Cimarrones, shooting guard Luis Mendoza scored 21 points and dished out 6 assists, but his team struggled from beyond the arc, hitting only 6 of 22 three-point attempts. The loss dropped Cimarrones to 4-4 on the season.

Implications for the Season

The victory solidifies the Paisas' position as a playoff contender in the Liga de Baloncesto. Their balanced scoring and improved defense have been hallmarks of their recent success. Meanwhile, the Cimarrones will look to bounce back in their next matchup against the Cafeteros, where they will need to tighten their perimeter defense.

With the league entering the second half of the regular season, every win carries extra weight. The Paisas have now won three of their last four games and are gaining momentum.