Flamengo's basketball team kicks off 2010 in earnest this weekend. Since their match against Paulistano, which was scheduled for last weekend in Rio, was postponed, the Flamengo team won't play their first official game of the year until Friday, against Franca. As if that weren't enough of a challenge, this Sunday the team faces another strong team: Palmeiras/Araraquara. A run that, while challenging, could also be encouraging.

\

Point guard Helio explains. Franca and Araraquara are among the favorites for the title, as are Flamengo, Joinville, and Brasília. Therefore, two wins in this weekend's matches would be crucial to proving the strength of the Gávea team, the current two-time Brazilian champion.

\

"Expectations are high. We know these will be tough matches against two direct rivals in the competition, but these are also matches that can boost our morale. Two wins are crucial and will be big steps towards the playoffs. Our focus is on winning the championship for the third time, and we'll fight for it," said the number 5.

\

The postponement of the match against Paulistano, according to Guilherme Teichmann, didn't hinder the team. "On the contrary, it gave the team more time to train after the end-of-year break." The player also anticipates tough clashes against Franca and Araraquara, but at the same time, sees these matches as acid tests for the Rubro-Negro.

\

"I'm expecting difficult games, yes, but for us it will be a great opportunity to see if we're doing well," he analyzed.