With a great performance in the second half, Flamengo beat Pato Basquete 85-61 on Friday afternoon (12), at Arena Minas, for the NBB. The red-black team's top scorer in the game was Marquinhos with 17 points scored. With the victory, the Pride of the Nation remains in the lead of the championship.

The game
Flamengo's first three points of the first period came from Léo Demétrio. With a well-balanced start to the match, the two teams traded points on offense. Mineiro, who came on late in the quarter, scored a three-pointer for Flamengo. Flamengo, with a tight defense, seized opportunities to convert. In the final seconds, Mineiro shot from the perimeter to tie the game. Martinez then stole a ball and, on a platter, turned the score around for Flamengo at the end of the quarter: 22-20.

In the second period, the red-and-black team was slow to score, allowing Pato's team to take the lead. But soon after, Yago was fouled and converted both free throws for the Mais Querido, tying the match again. The team from Paraná continued to play well and finished the first half leading 37-31.

The Pride of the Nation came roaring back in the third quarter, hitting two three-pointers in the opening minutes. Yago, on a quick counterattack, converted for Flamengo and tied the match, which remained evenly matched. Perimeter shots fell again, and Marquinhos put Mengão back in the lead. In a quarter where the red-and-black team once again showed its strength, the Most Beloved managed to open up a considerable lead and finished ahead: 60-46.

More relaxed on the court thanks to the advantage gained, the Pride of the Nation began to manage the result and calmly work its offensive plays. Jhonatan Luz hit a three-pointer and further increased the lead. In a strong comeback, Mengão played a great second half, imposing its game, and left the court with a beautiful victory: 85-61.

Highlights:
Marquinhos - 17 points;
Rafael Hettsheimeir - 13 points;
Rafael Mineiro - 11 points;
Jhonatan Luz - 10 points;
Léo Demétrio - 10 points.

And now?
The Pride of the Nation returns to the court next Sunday (14) to face Campo Mourão, at 16 pm, at Arena Minas.

Starting Quintet
Franco Balbi, Chuzito, Marquinhos, Léo Demétrio and Hettsheimeir.


The basketball teams of Clube de Regatas do Flamengo rely on resources from their sponsors – BRB, TIM, Ambev, Rede D'or, IRB Brasil RE, CSN, Brasil Plural, EY – via the Federal Incentive Law/Ministry of Sports (IR) and State Incentive Law/State Secretariat of Sports, Leisure and Youth (Seelje) of Rio de Janeiro, in addition to support from the Brazilian Committee of Clubs (CBC).