Puerto Rico Returns to Final Six Podium with Bronze Medal

ZINACANTEPEC, Mexico, September 27, 2026.- Puerto Rico earned its second bronze medal in NORCECA Women’s Final Six history after defeating Cuba 3-0 (25-16, 25-22, 25-23) on Sunday at the Unidad Deportiva Juan Fernández Albarrán.

Puerto Rico finished the tournament with a 3-4 record, while Cuba closed at 2-5.

The Puerto Ricans made the biggest difference at the net, holding a commanding 14-6 advantage in blocks. They also led 41-39 in attacks and 4-1 in aces, while committing one fewer error than Cuba (15-16).

After Puerto Rico controlled the opening set 25-16, the second developed into a tight battle with both teams exchanging the lead. Puerto Rico prevailed 25-22 and then held off Cuba in another close third set, 25-23, to secure the bronze medal.

Dariana Hollingsworth led Puerto Rico with a match-high 21 points, while Adriana Rodríguez added 13. Middle blocker Neira Ortiz also played a key role with nine points, including a match-high five blocks.

Whitney James led Cuba with 12 points and was the only Cuban player to score in double figures.

Dariana Hollingsworth, Puerto Rico’s top scorer: “We are very happy with the medal. Nobody remembers how you start, but how you finish, so we are very satisfied. In the end, we needed more commitment and discipline. Cuba also made adjustments; they always come ready to fight in every match, and we admire them because they play with a lot of heart.”

Luizomar de Moura, head coach of Cuba: “This is part of the transformation we are working on for Cuba, and it is important for the players to have this kind of competition. It has been a very difficult week and 17 days of competition is demanding, but the players are learning, and that is our most important objective.”