It's NBB night at Tijuca Tênis Clube. This Tuesday (13), at 20:15 pm, Flamengo takes to the court to face Corinthians in the second game of the best-of-five series of the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) quarterfinals. After opening 1-0 in the series, away from home last Saturday, the squad led by Sergio Hernandez wants to take advantage of home court to extend the advantage and be one victory away from the semifinals.

Tonight's game marks the fourth time Flamengo and Corinthians have faced each other this season - and the teams have at least one more match guaranteed, on Thursday (15). The series could still reach five games, for a total of seven meetings in the current edition of the NBB. For Alexey, Mais Querido's standout this season, repeating matches against the same opponent requires more than talent: it requires intelligence, reading the game and constant adaptation. 

"Playing the same team so many times, sometimes consecutively, creates more room for specific strategies," he explained. "Both teams will make adjustments from the first match, and it will be crucial to adapt to these changes as quickly as possible."

Flamengo won Game 1 in São Paulo 94-88, overcoming absences in a dominant finish. The point guard emphasizes the value of transforming this positive momentum into continuity in the series, reinforcing the strategic importance of another victory, this time at home. "Winning today would be very important; going 2-0 in the series puts all the pressure on them. We're well prepared, we know them very well," he added.

If Flamengo wins this Tuesday and also on Thursday (15), again in Tijuca, they will guarantee a place in the semifinals with a 3-0 score. In case of a slip-up, game 4 will be played on Sunday (18), in São Paulo. A possible game 5 would take place again in Rio.

"The adjustments, dedication, and collective effort we bring to this type of game are invaluable. We're ready to showcase our best basketball," he concluded. Flamengo is counting on the strength of the nation to pave the way for the NBB semifinals. Secure your ticket at ingressos.flamengo.com.br and join us!

Related: Alexey, Franco Balbi, Matheus Gueiros and Yan Marun; Shaq Johnson, Gui Deodato and Luan Rodrigues; Jordan Williams and Jhonatan Luz; Kayo Gonçalves and Lucas Siewert; Ruan Miranda.