Guaiqueries Edge Out Trotamundos in Thrilling 87-83 Clásico de la LPB

In one of the most anticipated matchups of the Liga Profesional de Baloncesto (LPB) season, Guaiqueries de Margarita defeated their archrivals Trotamundos de Carabobo 87-83 on May 25, 2026. The contest, played at the Gimnasio Ciudad de Margarita, lived up to its billing as a fierce, back-and-forth battle that was decided in the final minute by clutch free throws and suffocating defense.

Match Overview

Both teams entered the game near the top of the LPB standings, making this an early-season statement win. Guaiqueries used a raucous home crowd and a balanced scoring effort to overcome a late run by Trotamundos, who had won four of their previous five meetings in this heated rivalry. The final margin of victory reflected the narrow margins that often define Venezuelan basketball.

Key Moments

• First Half Control: Guaiqueries jumped out to a 45-38 lead at halftime behind strong inside play from center Juan “El Tanque” Medina, who had 12 points and 8 boards by the break.
• Trotamundos Strike Back: The visitors opened the third quarter with a 14-2 run to take a 52-47 lead, powered by guard David Cubillán's three-point shooting.
• Final Quarter Drama: With the score tied 81-81 and 90 seconds left, Guaiqueries’ Jhonatan Araujo drew a charging foul on Trotamundos’ star, then sank two free throws to make it 83-81. A defensive stop followed by two more free throws from Luis Bethelmy sealed the 87-83 victory.

Standout Performances

Luis Bethelmy led all scorers with 25 points and 7 rebounds for Guaiqueries, stepping up in clutch moments. Jhonatan Araujo added 18 points and a crucial 4 steals, while Juan Medina finished with a double-double (14 points, 12 rebounds).

For Trotamundos, David Cubillán scored 22 points, including 5 of 9 from beyond the arc. Dwight Lewis contributed 16 points off the bench, but the team struggled from the free-throw line, shooting just 64% (14-of-22).

Why This Win Matters

Guaiqueries solidify their position as title contenders in the LPB, especially with their strong home-court advantage. Trotamundos, known for their playoff resilience, will look to adjust their rotations and tighten perimeter defense. This rivalry could well meet again in the postseason, and every head-to-head result adds to the psychological edge.

Next up for Guaiqueries is a road trip to face Cocodrilos de Caracas, while Trotamundos return home to host Toros de Aragua. Fans of Venezuelan basketball won’t want to miss the rematch later this season.