PUERTO LA CRUZ, Venezuela (Interstat) — K.J. McDaniels posted 17 points, nine rebounds and two assists as Anzoátegui defeated Zulia 76-68 on Monday in Game 3 of the Venezuelan SLB playoff series. The Marinos now lead the series 3-0.

Edwin Mijares scored 13 points, Juan Miguel Suero added 10 points and four rebounds, and Malik Dime contributed 13 points, eight rebounds and three blocks. Anzoátegui outscored Zulia 31-21 in the second quarter to seize control.

The Gaiteros, who held a 20-15 edge after the first quarter, could not recover. Michael Bryson had three rebounds and two assists for the winners. Jose Materan played three minutes and Carlos Fulda finished with four points.

Zulia fell to 24-8 while Anzoátegui improved to 20-11. The game was played at Luis Ramos de Puerto La Cruz. The teams meet again Tuesday for Game 4.