Nacional Advances in Basketball Champions League Americas, Eyes Final Four

Nacional secured a crucial victory in the first leg of the Basketball Champions League Americas (BCL Americas) quarterfinal series against Paisas Basketball Club, winning 97-94 in Medellín, Colombia. The second leg will be hosted in Paysandú, Uruguay, at the 8 de Junio Stadium on Saturday, March 14, 2026, with a tip-off time of 8:40 p.m. Local time. The team aims to build on last year’s success, having won the South American League, and continue its continental growth.

A Demanding Schedule and International Ambitions

Nacional’s coach, Álvaro Ponce, emphasized the team’s ambition to compete for all available titles. “We have a healthy ambition to move for everything,” Ponce stated. “Uruguayan basketball did not have international titles at the club level and last year we showed that it is possible. Since then all the club’s efforts are aligned to compete and win everything that is played.”

The team faces the challenge of balancing competition in both the Uruguayan League and the BCL Americas. Ponce noted the impact of frequent international travel on player fatigue and performance in the domestic league. “We are the only team that made it this far in international competition and that influences,” he explained. “Between last year and this year we made ten trips abroad. We return with players with flu, viruses or injuries, due to the fact that the level of demand is very high.” Despite this, Ponce remains confident in the team’s ability to perform in both competitions, prioritizing a strong finish in the Uruguayan League to prepare for the playoffs.

Paysandú Embraces International Basketball

Luis López, president of the Nacional basketball commission, highlighted the significance of hosting the game in Paysandú. He explained that the decision to bring the tournament to the interior of Uruguay was made immediately after qualifying in Chile the previous year, with strong support from the local municipality. López praised the facilities at the 8 de Junio Stadium, noting the investment made to create a venue suitable for international events. “Not all places in the country have a stage like this,” he said. “The investment that was made allowed us to have a wonderful stadium, with the necessary quality for international events.”

The club is likewise considering Paysandú as a potential host city for the Final Four, alongside the Antel Arena in Montevideo, should they advance.

Team Spirit and Local Connection

López underscored the importance of institutional continuity and a strong team dynamic within Nacional. He also pointed to the presence of players with ties to Paysandú, such as Luciano Parodi and Súperi, as an added incentive for local fans.

Looking Ahead

American player Connor Zinaich expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming match and thanked the city for its support. “It’s a great opportunity to qualify for the Final Four,” he said. “For us and for the entire club it is a very special moment.” Nacional enters the second leg with a narrow advantage, but recognizes the series remains open.

Game Information

Teams: Paisas Basketball Club vs. Nacional

Competition: Basketball Champions League Americas – Quarter-Finals

Location: Coliseo Ivan de Bedout, Medellín, Colombia (First Leg); 8 de Junio Stadium, Paysandú, Uruguay (Second Leg)

Date: March 14, 2026

Referees: Omar Bermudez (MEX), Johnny Batista (PUR), Roberto Fernandez (CRC) Source

Attendance (First Leg): 2,450 Source