The cry of seven-time champions echoed throughout the Hélio Maurício gymnasium in Gávea on the day Flamengo turned 116. To further enhance the club's beautiful anniversary celebration, the basketball team defeated Tijuca 93-75 on Tuesday afternoon (November 15.11), undefeatedly winning its 37th state title and seventh in a row. In the first match of the best-of-three final, Flamengo had already crushed its rival 101-74. Captain Marcelinho was the game's top scorer with 23 points.

The game was evenly matched throughout the first half. The first quarter ended 23-21 for Flamengo, who went into halftime leading 38-37. But Flamengo tightened its defense in the second half and showed its true potential, closing the third quarter 69-57. In the final quarter, Flamengo remained unchallenged until the end: 93-75, to the delight of the approximately 700 people who packed the gymnasium.

It was star Leandrinho's first title wearing the Flamengo shirt.

"It's a very special title for my career. It's exciting to wear this shirt and play in front of these fans who have so much affection for the club," said the player, as the crowd chanted "Stay Leandrinho!" "I don't even have words. I can only say thank you," he added.

Captain Marcelinho was also emotional:

"It's great to be able to play here, driven by these fans, and to be able to repay all that affection with a title," he said. Marcelinho believes Flamengo will continue to improve from now on. "We have four new players on the team, and the tendency is that, as time goes on, we'll gain rhythm, develop a better understanding, and continue to improve."

It was also the first title for coach Gonzalo Garcia, who took over the team at the beginning of 2011.

"It's an honor. Flamengo was on a winning streak and didn't want to be the only one not to win. I'm very happy," said the coach.

The players received their medals and the championship trophy from President Patrícia Amorim.

"I've been following this team since 2005, I participated in the assembly of this team, and I feel happy to have contributed to everything that is happening, especially on the day of the club's anniversary," he said.

Flamengo's next challenge will be the NBB (New Basketball Brazil). The team's debut will be Saturday (19.11), against Paulistano, at 12 pm, at the Tijuca Tennis Club Gymnasium.

Flamengo played with: Marcelinho (23), Leandrinho (15), David Jackson (17), Kammerichs (4) and Caio Torres (6). Entered: Hélio (9), Wagner (8), Duda (3), Guto (3), Teichmann (5) and Átila (-).

Youth ties the series
In the second match of the State Youth Championship semifinals, Flamengo defeated Fluminense 89-65, tying the best-of-three series. Bampa led all scorers with 24 points.