Flamengo's youth basketball team was crowned State champion this Wednesday (11/30), after beating Macaé, at the opponent's home, by 69 to 65. The Rubro-negro, who had already won the first match (73x71), repeated the result away from home and lifted the trophy. The top scorer of the match for Fla was Gabriel Andrade, with 17 points.

Flamengo started the first quarter overwhelmingly, slowed down, but managed to win by a five-point margin: 19-14. In the second quarter, the red-and-black team maintained its performance and determination (38-30). In the third quarter, Macaé, motivated by the fans, pressed and managed to reduce the lead (46-43), but Flamengo did not waver in the final period and won 69-65.

Marcus Hygino, the team's coach, couldn't hide his excitement about the title. After all, he could see the results of a long year of work.

"It's very refreshing to see a team mature throughout the year and reap great rewards at the end. They played like men, had great skill and determination to win this championship," he celebrated.

2011 State Champion Team: Ricardo de Oliveira, Willian, Anderson Resende, Alex Borges, Felipe Ranieri, Thiago, Daniel Lorio, Rafael Prudente, Ricardo Bampa, Gabriel Andrade, Robert Dias and Rodrigo Tocinho. Coach: Marcus Hygino.