After qualifying from the BCLA, the Pride of the Nation returned to the court for the NBB. With a dominant and overwhelming third-quarter performance, Flamengo defeated Bauru at Tijuca Tênis Clube 66-54.

Hettsheimeir led the Red-and-Black victory, scoring 23 points. Olivinha and Gabriel Jaú also had standout performances. The Cuello-Martinez duo contributed solid defense, combining for 14 rebounds.

Highlights

Hettsheimeir - 23 points, 4 rebounds
Olivinha - 14 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists
Cuello - 6 rebounds, 3 assists 

The game

Hettsheimeir scored the first three baskets of the game—and in very similar fashion, with beautiful spins toward defenders. The number 30 had a sharp aim: he hit four of his five shots, scoring 12 of Mais Querido's 19 points in the quarter. Showing speed on the counterattack and intensity on the plays, the Pride of the Nation cornered their opponent and managed to build a good lead. With half a minute left in the half, a red-and-black counterattack ended in an electrifying basket by Cuello.

The score gap widened in the second quarter. Olivinha began to dominate the scoring, contributing seven points in that period. Flamengo showed confidence on defense and agility on offense, finding the back of the net. Gui Deodato made a beautiful block just before the three-minute mark. Bauru managed to improve its shooting efficiency and narrow the gap. With Flamengo's lead just three points, Fischer hit a beautiful long-range shot, putting Flamengo in a more comfortable position. Flamengo's Pride went into halftime leading: 37-31.

In the second half, Hettsheimeir once again started the scoring. Flamengo's dominance grew, and the score grew in Flamengo's favor: 20-11. The Hett-Jaú duo worked in perfect harmony, scoring 16 points and grabbing three rebounds.

Once again, Flamengo's number 30 led the team to a strong scoring record. Hettsheimeir achieved an important milestone: he scored in every quarter of the match. Bauru managed to create good opportunities on offense but failed to threaten the Pride of the Nation's lead. The São Paulo team managed to score more in the final quarter, but the final score was a comfortable 66-54 victory for Flamengo.

Initial Quintet

Gui Deodato, Fischer, Gabriel Jaú, Hettsheimeir and Cuello
Coach: Gustavo de Conti

upcoming appointments

FlaBasquete returns to the court for the NBB next Friday (17), against Caxias. The match takes place in Rio Grande do Sul. At the weekend, the Pride of the Nation visits União Corinthians in Santa Cruz do Sul.