ZACATECAS, Mexico (Interstat) — The Jalisco Astros used a dominant third quarter and a stifling defensive effort to defeat Zacatecas 78-66 in a Mexican LNBP matchup on Thursday night at Marcelino Gonzalez arena.

The Astros, the league’s top team, improved to 16-1. Zacatecas fell to 9-6.

Holding a narrow 37-38 halftime lead, the Astros seized control in the third quarter by outscoring the home side 20-13. They extended their advantage in the final period to secure the victory. Jalisco’s defense was the story, as they held Zacatecas to an offensive rating of 92.1 points per 100 possessions.

D.J. Cooper orchestrated the Jalisco offense, dishing out a game-high 12 assists to go with 10 points in 28 minutes. The Astros’ frontcourt controlled the glass, outrebounding Zacatecas 43-28. Wesley Gordon nearly notched a double-double with 10 points and nine rebounds, while Devin Davis added 11 points and seven boards. Devonte Upson and Chavaughn Lewis each scored 12 points for the Astros.

Dexter McClanahan led all scorers with 19 points for Zacatecas in the losing effort. Romeao Ferguson contributed 12 points.

Jalisco shot 40% from the field but struggled from beyond the arc, making just 6 of 26 three-point attempts. They made up for it at the free-throw line, converting 16 of 18 attempts. Zacatecas shot 38% from the floor and 34% from three-point range.

The two teams are scheduled to meet again at the same venue on Friday.