Lares dominates Carolina and now challenges the two-time champion Caribes in the semifinals

CAROLINA, Puerto Rico, December 22, 2025. – The Patriotas de Lares secured their place in the semifinals of the Men’s Superior Volleyball League (LVSM) by defeating Gigantes de Carolina for the second consecutive time in Series B of the quarterfinals.

Both victories by Patriotas came in straight sets; this time with scores of 25-20, 25-14, and 25-23.

Lares thus becomes the third semifinalist and will play a best-of-seven series (7–4) against the two-time champions Caribes de San Sebastián. The series begins on Friday, December 26, at the Luis Aymat Cardona Coliseum starting at 8:00 p.m.

With a two-set lead, Patriotas faced resistance from Gigantes, who kept the third set tied from point 17 to 20. However, three consecutive points by Lares halted Carolina’s momentum.

An attack by Jair Santiago from zone two, followed by an effective spike from Garrett Muagututia from zone four, and a service ace by Santiago put Lares ahead 23-20.

Patriotas reached set point at 24-21 with a quick middle attack by Nick West and sealed the 25-23 victory with another spike by the middle blocker in the same zone.

Lares led 40-27 in attacks, 12-7 in blocks, 3-2 in service aces, 41-30 in digs, 27-23 in receptions, and 27-16 in assists.

Patriotas offense was led by Jair Santiago with 16 points, followed by Muagututia and West, both with 10 points. For Carolina, no player reached double figures. Luis Vega and John Chamone each scored 8 points.

The other quarterfinal series between Plataneros de Corozal (1-1) and Changos de Naranjito (1-1) will be decided this Tuesday, December 23, at the Carmen Z. Figueroa court starting at 8:00 p.m.

The winner will face Cafeteros de Yauco on Saturday, December 27, at the Raúl “Pipote” Oliveras Coliseum starting at 8:00 p.m.

Both semifinal series will continue with a day of rest between matches, according to LVSM tournament director Lcdo. Jaime Vázquez.