AP Sports Preview

CHIHUAHUA, Mexico (Interstat) — The Diablos Rojos visit the Dorados on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Gimnasio Manuel Bernardo Aguirre in a Mexican LNBP matchup that carries playoff implications for both sides.

Diablos Rojos (20-14) enter on an upswing after a 91-88 home win over Aguascalientes on July 24. Power forward Devon Scott posted 25 points and 10 rebounds in that victory, playing 30 minutes. Scott followed a 15-point, seven-rebound effort in an 80-91 loss to the same opponent the previous day. The team has won two of its last three games but has struggled on the road this season, including a 74-84 loss at Fuerza Regia in November 2025.

Dorados (15-11) have also found recent success, winning back-to-back home games against Irapuato. On July 25, Dorados defeated Irapuato 89-79 behind a double-double from center J.J. Avila, who had 12 points and 12 rebounds in 34 minutes. Avila recorded another double-double in the prior game — 10 points and 14 rebounds — in an 84-80 win July 24. Guard Will Cherry has been a steady contributor, averaging 20 points in the most recent victory.

The series has been competitive. Diablos Rojos won the most recent meeting, an 89-83 home victory on Oct. 17, 2025. Dorados claimed the prior matchup, 86-78 at Diablos Rojos on Oct. 10, 2025. Diablos Rojos also earned an 81-65 road win Oct. 14, 2025.

Key players to watch: Scott leads Diablos Rojos in scoring after his recent performances, while Avila anchors Dorados with his rebounding and playmaking. The game tips off at Gimnasio Manuel Bernardo Aguirre.