Flamengo started the New Basketball Brazil (NBB) 2025/2026 in the best possible way. On Saturday afternoon (18), the Most Beloved defeated Bauru 102-86, at the Panela de Pressão gymnasium, in Bauru, and achieved its first victory in the country's main competition. With a dominant performance from the beginning, the Rubro-Negro controlled the game, reaching a hundred-point score in the first official match of the Brazilian season.

Sergio Hernandez's team put on an inspired performance from its newcomers. Center Wesley Castro was the standout performer with 22 points, followed by power forward Markeith Cummings with 20 points. Alex Negrete also made a difference with his minutes, tallying 10 points. Fans' longtime favorites Alexey Borges and Gui Deodato also excelled: one with 12 points and 9 assists and the other with 12 points, respectively. 

Now, the Pride of the Nation turns its attention to Rio de Janeiro, where it will play its first two games against the Nation: on Tuesday (21), against Unifacisa, at 20 pm, and on Thursday (23), against Fortaleza, at 19 pm, both at Maracanãzinho. Tickets are already on sale. Get yours at ingressos.flamengo.com.br.

The Game

1st Bedroom

Flamengo started the NBB season with a bang. From the first possession, the team displayed defensive intensity and offensive efficiency. Gui Deodato opened the scoring with a three-pointer, followed by Wesley and Markeith Cummings, who also converted their first attempts. Even after Bauru rallied and turned the game around, the Rubro-Negro regained the lead with another three-pointer from Cummings. Wesley and Gui extended the lead, while Alex Negrete came on and showed off his repertoire. With great rhythm and shooting accuracy, Flamengo closed the first quarter ahead 32-24, setting the tone for the match.

2st Bedroom

Flamengo maintained its momentum in the second quarter and continued to dominate the attack. Kayo Gonçalves opened the period with a three-pointer, and the Mais Querido quickly extended the lead to 40-24. The duo of Alexey and Wesley demonstrated a solid rapport, with the center concluding a beautiful play with a dunk. In addition to their offensive prowess, Flamengo imposed a stifling defense, forcing 11 turnovers from Bauru in the period. In the end, Markeith Cummings capped off a great first half with a three-pointer at the end of the clock, sending the team to the break leading 60-39.

3st Bedroom

In the third quarter, Flamengo continued to manage the lead they had built in the first half well. The team traded baskets with Bauru and maintained control of the match, with a lead of around 20 points for much of the period. The Flamengo's newcomers continued to shine: Wesley, Markeith Cummings, and Alex Negrete stood out, while Dee Bost and Lucas Doria also contributed. In the final minutes, the home team fought back and managed to close the gap, bringing the score to 80-71 for Mengão at the end of the quarter.

4st Bedroom

In the final quarter, Flamengo showed maturity in controlling the pace and holding onto their lead. With Markeith Cummings, Wesley, and Gui Deodato maintaining their high level of performance, the Red-Black team responded well to the home team's pressure and managed the final minutes with ease. Solid on both ends of the court, Mengão confirmed their strong debut in the NBB, defeating Bauru 102-8.

Next appointment 

The Pride of the Nation returns to the court next Tuesday, at 20 pm, at Maracanãzinho, for the team's first home match in this edition of the NBB.

Starting Quintet 

Alexey, Gui Deodato, Shaq Johnson, Markeith Cummings and Wesley Castro.
Coach: Sergio Hernandez