The crowd's reaction already hinted at who was coming. Since the warm-up, the anticipation to see the number 17 on the court was immense. Those days between the announcement and Anderson Varejão's big debut created a certain nervousness in the atmosphere, which had its explanation. When he stepped onto the court, the power forward brought the entire Arena Carioca 1 stadium to its feet in applause. And it wasn't without reason.

Before playing his first minutes on the court, Varejão chatted with Marcelinho the entire time. It was a tough encounter, filled with stories and an unparalleled partnership. The Captain once again became a mentor to one of the stars of Thursday night (2). While Campo Mourão tried to surprise the packed Arena, the two, in sync, talked about the game. When José Neto called them to the match, it didn't take long for everything to be reflected on the court.

Anderson looked relaxed and relaxed. His first attempt included a beautiful assist for Marcelinho. These two points were followed by many more assists from the number 17. His first basket, of course, came from a quick counterattack, a long pass to the Captain, and a back pass. Varejão simply finished off the board with ease.

He played 17 minutes on the court, racking up four points, five assists, and seven rebounds. It may seem like a small amount, but it was enough to change the course of the match. Assisting José Neto's team in every quarter, Varejão wowed the fans with his eagerness in his first appearance in the Sacred Mantle. With a huge smile on his face and a great connection with his teammates, Anderson showed he was at home and lived every minute.

The next challenge will be this Saturday (3). For Flamengo, it is the chance to reaffirm its leadership of the NBB, as it faces Paulistano, second in the competition. For the number 17, the second step in its long red-black journey. 

The basketball teams of Clube de Regatas do Flamengo receive funding from their sponsors – thinkseg, Estácio, AmBev, Rede D'or, IRB Brasil RE, CSN, Brasil Plural, and EY – via the Federal Incentive Law/Ministry of Sports (IR) and the State Incentive Law/Rio de Janeiro State Secretariat of Sports, Recreation, and Youth (Seelje), in addition to support from the Brazilian Club Committee (CBC) resulting from the decentralization of resources from the Pelé Law. The Anjo da Guarda Rubro-Negro Project, a personal tax transfer, benefits all Olympic sports of the Most Beloved.