At the FIBA AmeriCup 2025, history repeated itself—24 years later. Uruguay (1-1) shocked the basketball world by edging out the United States (1-1) in a thrilling 86-85 showdown, marking only their second-ever win against the powerhouse Americans in the competition’s history. The victory immediately shifted the balance in Group A, moving coach Gerardo Jauri’s squad into second place and firmly in control of their quarter-final fate.

A Game of Runs and Resilience

The clash was a back-and-forth battle defined by late-game heroics. Uruguay built an eight-point cushion with just over four minutes left, courtesy of a clutch three-pointer from Santiago Vescovi. But the U.S. stormed back behind hot shooting from Langston Galloway and Jahmius Ramsey, snatching an 83-82 lead in the final 90 seconds.

When the pressure mounted, Uruguay responded. Mateo Bianchi’s last-second bucket under the rim gave them the lead again, before Vescovi delivered the dagger—a fearless drive for a layup with just 23 seconds to play. Despite one last push from the Americans, Uruguay’s composure sealed the upset.

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Stars of the Night

Vescovi was unstoppable off the bench, finishing with 24 points, 5 assists, and the game’s defining basket, earning TCL Player of the Game honors. Joaquín Rodríguez added 23 points and 8 rebounds in a gritty performance. On the U.S. side, Galloway poured in 25 points with five three-pointers, while Ramsey chipped in 19.

Winning the Battle Inside

Uruguay’s dominance on the glass proved decisive. They out-rebounded the Americans 45-33, including 18 offensive boards that converted into 20 second-chance points—nearly triple what the U.S. managed. The South Americans also controlled the paint, outscoring Team USA 46-32 down low, silencing doubts about their lack of size.

More Than Just a Win

For Uruguay, this victory is about more than one game—it’s proof of belief, teamwork, and persistence. Vescovi summed it up best: “We are a very united team. Everyone contributes in their own way… I believe the way we’ve been working is taking us in the right direction. It’s a joy to see things coming together on the court.”

Now, with just one game left in the group phase, Uruguay faces the Bahamas with quarter-final qualification within reach. Team USA, meanwhile, will look to bounce back against Brazil.

But no matter what happens next, August 25, 2025, will be remembered as the night Uruguay stunned the giants once again.