The Pride of the Nation team made its debut in the second phase of the League of the Americas (LDA) 2015 on Friday night (27.02). Facing the Mexicans from Halcones Rojos, Flamengo demonstrated great security and quality throughout the game, demonstrating all the credentials of the current champions of the competition.

Without much difficulty, FlaBasquete emerged victorious with a 30-point margin on the scoreboard and took a great step towards qualifying for the Final Four. This Saturday (February 28.02), the Rubro-Negros continue their saga aiming for the second American championship. At 19 pm, FlaBasquete faces Trotamundos, from Venezuela, with live coverage on SporTV. 

Despite falling behind, Flamengo demonstrated a high-tempo game from the first minute. Highly motivated, the two points conceded by Halcones initially weren't enough to prevent Marquinhos from quickly responding with a three-pointer and Herrmann from extending the lead. From then on, Flamengo never lost the lead in the fourth quarter. Marquinhos himself, supported by point guard Laprovittola and center Jerome, kept Flamengo ahead 17-12 in the first half.

For the second quarter, coach José Neto changed the lineup. Resting some players, he brought in Benite, Felício, and Marcelinho. The latter was responsible for hitting a beautiful three-point shot just as the Mexicans were trying to close the gap, maintaining the lead. As usual, Benite was another strong starter. With great plays and beautiful shots from the shooting guard, FlaBasquete closed the second quarter at 19-18.

If the first half ended up being a quiet affair for the Pride of the Nation, the third quarter was even more intense. With strong performances from all the red-and-blacks on the court, and with the duo of Marquinhos and Laprovittola once again inspired, Flamengo opened up a 19-point lead at the end of the half, giving Halcones Rojos no chance, closing the quarter 29-16.

Even though the scoreline brought some peace of mind, the pace of the reigning Liga das Américas champions didn't slow down. With excellent three-point shooting and offensive rebounding, Flamengo further widened the gap. Marcelinho and Felício, more rested, supported by Olivinha, maintained Flamengo's intensity, which effortlessly closed the fourth quarter at 27-16 and the match at 92-62.

1st Quarter: 17 to 12

2st Quarter: 19 to 18

3st Quarter: 29 to 16

4st Quarter: 27 to 16

Final Score: 92 to 62