UPAEP claimed a hard-fought 77-73 road win over Universidad Veracruzana in the Mexico ABE League on October 22, 2026, using late-game poise and timely free-throw shooting to edge a contest that remained in the balance until the final possession. The four-point margin reflected a game of small runs, strong defense and clutch execution.

Match overview

UPAEP took a 21-18 lead after the first quarter and held a 38-35 advantage at halftime. Universidad Veracruzana stayed close throughout the third quarter and briefly took the lead early in the fourth, but UPAEP responded with a composed finishing stretch. The visitors led 58-55 after three quarters and then made just enough plays on both ends to secure a 77-73 victory.

Key moments

The game’s decisive sequence came with just under three minutes remaining. Universidad Veracruzana had moved ahead 66-64, but UPAEP answered with a 9-2 run capped by a driving layup and two free throws. That pushed the visitors ahead 73-68 and forced the home side to foul. Universidad Veracruzana had one last chance to tie in the final seconds, but a contested three-pointer missed, and UPAEP sealed the win at the line.

Tactical story

UPAEP’s half-court defense was the difference in a game where neither team shot the ball at a particularly high percentage. The visitors clogged the paint, forced Universidad Veracruzana into long possessions and controlled the defensive rebounds in the closing minutes. On offense, UPAEP attacked the basket with patience and drew fouls, finishing with a significant advantage at the free-throw line. Universidad Veracruzana remained competitive thanks to Andrés Molina and a strong effort on the offensive glass, but their late turnovers proved costly.

Standout performers

• Diego Álvarez led UPAEP with 22 points and five assists, scoring several crucial baskets in the fourth quarter.
• Emilio Cárdenas recorded a double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds, anchoring the interior defense.
• Jorge Lozano added 13 points, including three three-pointers that kept the offense balanced.
• For Universidad Veracruzana, Andrés Molina finished with 19 points, while Rodrigo Salazar contributed 15 points and six rebounds.

Table impact and what’s next

The road win is an important result for UPAEP in the ABE League, strengthening their standing in a competitive university basketball field. Universidad Veracruzana will be disappointed to lose a game they led late, but their performance showed they can compete with strong opposition. UPAEP will look to build on their late-game execution, while Universidad Veracruzana will focus on limiting turnovers and converting more of their second-chance opportunities in the next fixture.