Dorados de Chihuahua defeated the Gambusinos de Fresnillo 91-77 at the Gimnasio Manuel Bernardo Aguirre during Jornada 8 of the Liga Caliente.mx LNBP 2026 season, according to regional reports. The victory secured Chihuahua’s third series win of the campaign and propelled the club to a 7-1 record, giving them the top percentage in the league standings.
Chihuahua Extends Home Dominance and League Lead
Playing on their home court, the team from the Estado Grande captured their fifth victory in six home appearances. With the 91-77 decision, Dorados accumulated 15 points in the general standings to stay atop the LNBP table. Meanwhile, the loss dropped Fresnillo to a 2-6 record and marked their third defeat in regular-season play.
Head coach Jorge Elorduy adjusted his starting lineup for the second game of the series, deploying a unit featuring JR Clay, Jaden House, Ricardo “Kalo” Valdez, J.J. Ávila, and Ray Spalding. The tactical choice paid early dividends as Chihuahua raced out to a 10-0 run and nailed four three-pointers in the opening period to build a commanding 32-16 advantage.
A Fierce Fresnillo Comeback and Defensive Resurgence
Fresnillo mounted a significant rally in the middle quarters. After trimming the deficit to 50-41 by halftime behind 11 points and five assists from Víctor Álvarez, the visitors sparked a 9-1 run early in the third period. Guided by coach Elián Villafañe, the Gambusinos clawed back an 18-point deficit and even took a brief lead before J.J. Ávila answered with a crucial three-pointer to put the local squad back ahead 62-61 at the end of thirty minutes.
Dorados slammed the door shut in the final quarter. Ricardo “Kalo” Valdez hit a pair of long-range jumpers during a blistering 19-2 run that spanned six minutes, sealing the contest for Chihuahua. Defensively, the hosts clamped down to limit Fresnillo to 38.4 percent shooting from the field while forcing 17 turnovers. Statistics show Dorados controlled the flow of the game, leading for 37 minutes and 17 seconds compared to just 42 seconds for the visitors.
Standout Performers and Roster Milestones
Jaden House led all scorers with 20 points, grabbing six rebotes and dishing out four assists for Chihuahua. Markeith Cummings chipped in 16 points, Emmanuel Wembi added 13, Ray Spalding contributed 10, and Ricardo Valdez finished with nine. The match also marked the professional debut of Iván Bernal for Chihuahua alongside floor minutes for José Murillo.
For the Gambusinos, Thomas Cooper and KiAndre Gaddy paced the offense with 15 points apiece. Lester Medford added 12 points, and Víctor Álvarez wrapped up his night with 11.
Coach Reactions and Strategic Outlook
Reflecting on the performance, Jorge Elorduy noted the team’s strong starts but pointed out areas for growth. According to the Spanish coach, maintaining high energy and defensive solidity for a full 48 minutes remains a work in progress for his squad and across the league.
On the opposing sideline, Elián Villafañe pointed to physical fatigue in the final frame as a turning point while emphasizing the defensive progress of his team. The Argentine manager stressed that Fresnillo must sharpen its offensive execution and three-point shooting percentages moving forward.
Next Fixture
Dorados de Chihuahua will hit the road for their next series, traveling to face Lobos de Puebla on Saturday, August 15, and Sunday, August 16, at the Gimnasio Miguel Hidalgo.
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