Armenia Men’s Basketball Team Beats Costa Rica Twice, Wins 86–62 in Fresno and 103–90 in Los Angeles

Photo credit: Jason Taghktadjian

Armenia's national basketball team is making headlines and making history. Team Armenia defeated Costa Rica twice in just three days during their U.S. tour — first in Fresno and again in Los Angeles. These wins are a major step forward for Armenian basketball on the international stage.

On Sunday, Armenia beat Costa Rica 103-90 in Los Angeles, earning their second straight victory over a team ranked higher in the FIBA world standings. Costa Rica, ranked 74th in the world, struggled to keep up with Armenia, who came in ranked 91st but played with the heart and confidence of a top-tier team.

At halftime, Armenia was ahead by only two points, but the second half told a different story. The team pulled away with high energy and smart plays, controlling the game and never letting go of the lead. Five Armenian players scored in double digits, showing just how deep and balanced this team is. Star guard Andre Spight-Mkrtchyan led the way with 19 points and 8 assists, helping power Armenia’s offense and setting up his teammates all night.

Armenia also dominated from the three-point line, scoring 36 more points from deep than Costa Rica — a clear sign of their shooting strength and offensive strategy. Their ability to stretch the court and hit long shots was a key reason for both victories.

This performance followed a strong opening game on Friday night in Fresno, where Armenia crushed Costa Rica 86-62 at Fresno City College. After falling behind 15-13 in the first quarter, Armenia locked in. They took control with strong defense, quick ball movement, and confident shooting. Each quarter showed growth and control as they outscored Costa Rica the rest of the way.

What’s most exciting about these back-to-back wins is what they mean for the future of Armenian basketball. This team, made up of local and diaspora talent, is proving that Armenia can compete with and beat higher-ranked countries. Their success in the U.S. is not only a sports story — it’s a source of pride and inspiration for Armenians around the world.

Team Armenia's U.S. tour continues to build excitement. Fans in California came out to support, waving Armenian flags and cheering every basket. These games were more than just exhibitions — they were statements. Armenia is here to play.Armenia's national basketball team is making headlines and making history. Team Armenia defeated Costa Rica twice in just three days during their U.S. tour — first in Fresno and again in Los Angeles. These wins are a major step forward for Armenian basketball on the international stage.

On Sunday, Armenia beat Costa Rica 103-90 in Los Angeles, earning their second straight victory over a team ranked higher in the FIBA world standings. Costa Rica, ranked 74th in the world, struggled to keep up with Armenia, who came in ranked 91st but played with the heart and confidence of a top-tier team.

At halftime, Armenia was ahead by only two points, but the second half told a different story. The team pulled away with high energy and smart plays, controlling the game and never letting go of the lead. Five Armenian players scored in double digits, showing just how deep and balanced this team is. Star guard Andre Spight-Mkrtchyan led the way with 19 points and 8 assists, helping power Armenia’s offense and setting up his teammates all night.

Armenia also dominated from the three-point line, scoring 36 more points from deep than Costa Rica — a clear sign of their shooting strength and offensive strategy. Their ability to stretch the court and hit long shots was a key reason for both victories.

This performance followed a strong opening game on Friday night in Fresno, where Armenia crushed Costa Rica 86-62 at Fresno City College. After falling behind 15-13 in the first quarter, Armenia locked in. They took control with strong defense, quick ball movement, and confident shooting. Each quarter showed growth and control as they outscored Costa Rica the rest of the way.

What’s most exciting about these back-to-back wins is what they mean for the future of Armenian basketball. This team, made up of local and diaspora talent, is proving that Armenia can compete with and beat higher-ranked countries. Their success in the U.S. is not only a sports story — it’s a source of pride and inspiration for Armenians around the world.

Team Armenia's U.S. tour continues to build excitement. Fans in California came out to support, waving Armenian flags and cheering every basket. These games were more than just exhibitions — they were statements. Armenia is here to play.