Defending the title of current champion of the League of the Americas (LDA), the Pride of the Nation debuted on Friday night (23.01) in the competition, against Malvin, from Uruguay, and did not disappoint. Without great difficulties, Flamengo beat its first opponent showing great consistency and maturity on the court, by 97 to 74. 

Rubro-Negro's next match in the competition takes place this Saturday (24.01) against Leones de Quilpué, from Chile, at 22:15.

Flamengo's debut in the Liga das Américas was worthy of a reigning champion. Right from the start, the red-and-black team showed what they were made of. Olivinha opened the scoring, but shortly after, the Uruguayan team equalized and turned the game around. Despite taking the lead, Malvin couldn't withstand the high-tempo pace of coach José Neto's team, who quickly took the lead again thanks to strong performances from point guard Nico Laprovittola and winger Olivinha. Thus, the Pride of the Nation ended the quarter with a 24-19 lead.

The second half saw Flamengo's game even more vibrant. Maintaining the same intensity and keeping the ball rolling, the red-and-black squad once again demonstrated its strength. Although the Uruguayan team showed some resistance, Flabasquete managed to maintain its strong performance from the first quarter. Nico, once again, stood out and helped pull away from Flamengo, giving the Brazilian team a 20-12 lead in the second half.

The third quarter arrived, but the game wasn't much different. Malvin occasionally tried to get closer, but Flamengo's number seven, Laprovittola, continued to excel. Taking responsibility, the point guard scored three-pointers, converted free throws, dished out assists, and even grabbed rebounds. But the Flabasquete player wasn't alone. Benite, Herrmann, Felício, Meyinsse, Marcelinho, and Olivinha kept the game running smoothly for Flamengo, who, once again, easily won the quarter 31-22.

Leading by 22 points, the final stage began without much pressure on the reigning champions of the Americas, and the world. The red-and-black team exuded great composure on the court, justifying the team's success in recent years. In a flawless match, Argentine Laprovittola achieved a double-double, with double-digit points and assists, making life even more difficult for their Uruguayan opponents. Final score: Flamengo 97-74. 

1st Quarter: 24 to 19

2st Quarter: 20 to 12

3st Quarter: 31 to 22

4st Quarter: 22 to 21