Flabasquete took to the court again this Saturday (January 17.01th) to face Liga Sorocabana de Basquete at the Tijuca Tennis Club. In contrasting situations in the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB), the red-and-black team needed a victory to close the gap on the leaders and maintain their good form after winning against Paulistano. With a great performance, Flamengo emerged victorious with a score of 98-73.

Even without two of its key players (Marquinhos, with a viral infection, and Benite, with a minor knee sprain), the Pride of the Nation didn't lose its intensity. With an inspired Nico Laprovittola, Flamengo had little difficulty taking the lead. Despite failing on defensive rebounds at the start of the game, José Neto's team quickly got back on track and closed out the quarter 21-14. 

Fueled by the crowd and inspired by a great first quarter, the second half saw an even more offensive Flamengo. Point guard Herrmann and center Felício ensured high scores for the world champions. With Gegê at point guard and Nico playing almost like a wing, the ball moved more and the offense was consequently well-supplied. As a result, Flamengo finished the quarter 29-17, going into the second half with a 19-point lead.

For those who expected Liga Sorocabana to be scrambling to recover in the third quarter, they were mistaken. Flamengo played so confidently that they left no room for their opponents to play. Taking advantage of the momentum, José Neto gave young Chupeta a chance to enter the court, and he didn't disappoint. American center Meyinsse also stood out with his characteristic grit. In one of those games where nothing went wrong, the Pride of the Nation started shooting – and making – several three-pointers and putting on a show of dunks. They finished another quarter without much difficulty, 28-16.

In the final stage, with victory practically guaranteed, the Flamengo coach took out the entire starting lineup and gave the younger Flamengo team a chance to dominate the court. With Gigante, Daniel, Gegê, Mingau, and Chupeta, Flamengo continued to score well and almost reached 100 points. In a great night for the entire Pride of the Nation team, Flabasquete secured the victory 98-73.

"We have to improve even more in the NBB because we always want to fight for first place. What I think was best today was our rhythm. We played at our intensity, very strongly. We had a very good performance and we have to continue like this," said Nico Laprovittola.

This Monday (January 19.01th), Flamengo departs for Cancun, Mexico, to compete in the first phase of the Liga de las Américas. The current champions' opening match will take place on January 23rd against Malvín, from Uruguay.

1st Quarter: 21 to 17

2st Quarter: 29 to 17

3st Quarter: 28 to 16

4st Quarter: 20 to 26