On an impeccable offensive night, Flamengo defeated Franca 107-93 away from home and took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five NBB semifinals. With a great collective performance, high shooting efficiency and the protagonism of names like Alexey, Shaq Johnson and Kayo Gonçalves, the Rubro-Negro imposed its rhythm in the interior of São Paulo and took the first step towards the final. Game 2 takes place next Tuesday (27), at 20 pm, at Tijuca Tênis Clube, with tickets already available for the Nation. 

Flamengo and Franca played a great game at Pedrocão. The match was at a high level from the start, with both teams maintaining a fast pace throughout. Flamengo stood out for its impressive perimeter shooting: 17 of 31 attempted baskets—55% three-point shooting. In addition to the aforementioned contributions from Alexey, Shaq, and Kayo, Ruan scored 19 points, Balbi, an ever-important substitute off the bench, and Jordan Williams contributed to the Mais Querido's best performance this postseason. 

Now it's time to play at home! The Nation's presence makes all the difference on the court—it's time to pack Tijuca Stadium, push Mengão from start to finish, and continue the journey toward the NBB final. Secure your ticket at ingressos.flamengo.com.br and come play alongside FlaBasquete!

The game

1st Bedroom

The game started at a high level. Alexey, as usual, was in control. On the very first offensive possession, the point guard found Shaq Johnson cutting toward the basket for Flamengo's first two points. Shaq, in fact, was responsible for the team's first four points of the game. Flamengo converted their shots on their first four possessions of the game and forced Franca's first timeout of the game, making it 12-6. After the timeout, Alexey hit a three-pointer for his ninth point of the game in just four minutes. Alexey's partnership with Ruan in the pick-and-roll also stood out. In the most beautiful play of the quarter, Alexey found Ruan open on the screen, and the center responded with a breathtaking dunk. In the final minutes, Franca managed to close the gap, but the deficit was significant. After a blistering start, Flamengo closed the first quarter with a 26-25 lead.

2st Bedroom

The second quarter maintained the high level of play, with Flamengo and Franca putting on a stellar performance. Gui Deodato was the standout performer for the Mais Querido team at the beginning of the quarter, playing his role as sixth man with excellence. Shaq Johnson also stood out with an impressive offensive repertoire. From a certain point on, Sergio Hernández deployed a lighter lineup, opting for two point guards and two forwards together. The result was an impressive offensive volume. Alexey, Babli, and Shaq took turns converting baskets, and Flamengo finished the second quarter with an incredible 33 points. In total, they scored 59 points in the first half alone. This overwhelming pace was enough for the Mais Querido team to go into the locker room with a healthy lead: 59-48.

3st Bedroom

The third quarter maintained the balance and intensity of the match, with Flamengo maintaining its lead thanks, once again, to the sharp connection between Alexey and Ruan, which remained one of the game's most lethal weapons. In one of the first plays of the period, the point guard found the center under the basket for a quick finish, and soon after, Ruan extended his lead with two more points and a foul, maintaining the red-and-black lead at 11 points. Franco Balbi, who had already started very well in the second quarter, once again showed his talent and positively impacted the game. The teams continued to alternate offensive plays, while the coaches focused on managing the fouls of their key players. At the end of the period, Flamengo maintained its lead and went into the fourth quarter leading 80-75.

4st Bedroom

The final quarter, like most of the game, was a flurry of shots from both teams. But it was Flamengo who dominated the action, especially with Kayo Gonçalves on a brilliant night. The power forward took responsibility and converted two three-pointers in a row, increasing the red-and-black advantage. Alexey also scored from the perimeter, and Kayo, again accurate, scored his third of the period. With three minutes remaining, Flamengo led 97-86, and Jordan Williams joined the celebration with another three-pointer. The team reached the 100-point mark with over two minutes remaining, and Kayo's show continued: his fourth three-pointer of the quarter – with 100% success in the final 10 minutes. With an offensive spectacle, Flamengo closed out the game with a commanding 107-93 victory.

Next appointment

Now, the Pride of the Nation returns to the court on Tuesday (27), to face Franca, at 20 pm, for the second game of the NBB semifinal, at Tijuca Tênis Clube. Secure your ticket!

Starting Quintet

Alexey, Shaq Johnson, Jhonatan Luz, Kayo Gonçalves and Ruan Miranda. 

Coach: Sergio Hernandez.