In the final stretch of the NBB classification phase, FlaBasquete beat Paulistano 73-70 on Friday night (18), at Arena Carioca 1. In a very balanced game, decided in the final seconds, Orgulho da Nação made the strength of its squad prevail and left the court with another triumph in Novo Basquete Brasil. With 15 points, Argentine Franco Balbi was the highlight of the match for the red-black side.  

The game
The match began with FlaBasquete hitting a three-pointer with Yago. JP Batista then converted from outside the perimeter. Rafael Mineiro made a strong defensive comeback and blocked a beautiful shot after a Paulistano counterattack. Faverani, on his first attempt, hit a three-pointer. Yago hit another three-pointer, tying the score for Mengão. With seconds remaining in the first quarter, Balbi shot a three-pointer and converted. Flamengo won 20-18.

In the second quarter, the Pride of the Nation returned with more consistency on defense, effectively blocking Paulistano's attacks. Up front, Rafael Rachel hit a three-point shot. Robinson made a good play and also hit a three-pointer. In the final seconds, JP Batista received an open ball on the perimeter and converted, keeping the lead for the Most Beloved: 36-33.

After halftime, the match remained fairly even. Paulistano improved its defense and capitalized on its chances on offense. FlaBasquete, on the other hand, couldn't quite find its best form and struggled on offense. In the closing stretch, Túlio da Silva hit a three-pointer, making the match thrilling. The game was back-and-forth, with both teams trading points. The third quarter ended tied at 51-51.

The Pride of the Nation started the final period very well, with Olivinha converting a three-pointer that put them ahead. Brandon Robinson, showing all his class, also hit a beautiful three-pointer. Argentine Balbi made a beautiful individual play in the paint and scored two more for Mengão. The teams traded points on offense, leaving the game completely open. With two minutes remaining, El Mago Balbi performed another of his magic tricks, hitting two consecutive three-pointers. With that, Flamengo opened up a seven-point lead, their largest of the match.

In the final seconds, the game became thrilling. Paulistano shortened the red-and-black lead, which fell to just one point. With excellent ball work, Orgulho da Nação (the Pride of the Nation) ran out of time, and Balbi was fouled. The Argentine, with great composure, converted the two points and gave Mengão the victory: 73-70.

Next appointment
The Pride of the Nation returns to the court next Tuesday (22) to face Corinthians, at 20 pm, at Maracanãzinho.

Starting Quintet
Yago, Lucas Martinez, Mineiro, Olivinha and JP Batista.
Coach: Gustavo de Conti.