The nation once again put on a show, packing the Tijuca Tênis Clube gymnasium on Thursday night and pushing Flamengo to another victory in the NBB. This time, the team's excellent Paulistano team was the victim, unable to overcome the Flamengo's defensive barrier or withstand the Flamengo's offensive play. The game, which marked the debut of Paraguayan Zanotti, ended 94-70 for Mengão, who now have their 15th victory in the competition, further extending the all-time record in Brazilian basketball.

Despite the heavy score, anyone who thinks the game was easy is mistaken. The superiority on the scoreboard, achieved through the quality of the players and the power of the stands, was slow to materialize. The first quarter was very even, and even with Marquinhos leading the team from the opening minutes, when the clock hit zero for the first time, the score was 19-18 for Flamengo.

During the second quarter, Flamengo began to dominate the match. The fans roared nonstop, and midway through the quarter, the illustrious presence of club president Eduardo Bandeira de Mello, thrilled and captivated by the spectacle on and off the court, cheered the team on. At the end of the half, Flamengo led 47-40. The game remained evenly matched, but in the third quarter, things changed. Seeing their team under pressure from their opponent, the Flamengo showed all their mettle, and with accurate baskets and a well-organized defense by coach José Neto, the team took off, increasing the lead with each attack, to the delight of those in the gym.

"At the beginning of the season we were without Caio, then Marcelinho and then Shilton. When you have a strong group, results end up happening and that's what happened here tonight," said coach Neto.

With the lead gained in the previous quarters, the final 10 minutes were dominated by Flamengo. Despite the ecstatic fans clamoring for impressive plays, the team controlled itself, showed its maturity, and secured another victory in the NBB. Marquinhos led the way with 23 points. The night's debutant, Paraguayan Zanotti, converted a free throw and received a standing ovation from the red-and-blacks.

Next Saturday, the red-and-black basketball team will see its fans again at the Tijuca gymnasium, when they face Pinheiros at 18 p.m. It's the team's chance to secure its 16th consecutive victory in the competition.

Points per Room:
 Flamengo (94) x Paulistano (70)
 1st - 19 x 18
 2rd - 28 x 22
 3rd - 29 x 14
 4rd - 18 x 16