Flamengo went to Argentina this Monday (4) and took no notice when beating the Obras Sanitarias team, 113 to 80, at El Templo del Rock, for Game 1 of the quarterfinals of the Basketball Champions League Americas (BCLA). With great use of triple balls, Kayo Gonçalves was the highlight with 28 points. Gabriel Jaú also stood out by reaching the double-double with 20 points and 12 rebounds. 

Now, Orgulho da Nação returns to Rio de Janeiro for Game 2, which will be played on Thursday (7), at Maracanãzinho. Click here and secure your ticket now to push Mengão towards the BCLA semifinals!

Highlights
Kayo Gonçalves – 28 points;
Gabriel Jaú – 20 points and 12 rebounds;
Franco Balbi – 12 points;
Devon Scott – 12 points;
Gui Deodato – 11 points.

1st Bedroom
FlaBasquete's first two points came from Gabriel Jaú, who fought in the paint and converted. Obras, in turn, started the match with the advantage. Kayo Gonçalves scored the first three-pointer of the game. In a quick play, Balbi provided a beautiful assist for Cuello to score two more points and give Orgulho da Nação the lead for the first time in the game. From then on, the red-and-black team played its best game and finished the period with a 15-point lead: 37-22.

2st Bedroom
Showing great intensity, the Pride of the Nation controlled the action and maintained a healthy lead. Olivinha worked well with Devon Scott in the paint, and the American converted two more points. Next, Argentine Balbi received the ball in a good position and hit a three-pointer, as did Kayo Gonçalves from the dead zone. Mengão's number 23 had a great first half, scoring 13 points. Gui Deodato swayed past the defense and hit shots from the perimeter. The Mais Querido built a strong lead and went into halftime leading 62-39.  

3st Bedroom
In the third quarter, the inspired Kayo Gonçalves hit three more three-pointers in a row, proving he was truly in top form. The Pride of the Nation completely dictated the pace of the match, giving Obras no chance to mount a comeback. Gustavo De Conti's team moved the ball well to find the best shot. With that, FlaBasquete closed the period at 92-66.

4st Bedroom
On a spectacular night, Kayo Gonçalves hit another three-pointer. He had excellent perimeter performance, converting 7 of 7 attempts. Big Maique dunked and added two more points to Mengão's account. Naturally, the Pride of the Nation reached its centennial and was in absolute control of the game. Maintaining the same momentum until the end, the red-and-black team closed the game 113-80. An impeccable victory in Argentina! With a win next Thursday, FlaBasquete will secure a spot in the BCLA semifinals.

Next challenge
The Pride of the Nation returns to the court next Thursday (7) to face Obras Sanitarias again, at 20:10 pm, at Maracanãzinho, for Game 2 of the BCLA quarterfinals.

Starting Quintet
Franco Balbi, Gui Deodato, Loku Cuello, Kayo Gonçalves and Gabriel Jaú.
Coach: Gustavo De Conti.