Flamengo won again. Playing in a packed Tijuca Tennis Club, Flamengo defeated Botafogo 81-69 this Thursday, taking a 2-0 lead in the semifinals. The "Most Beloved" is one win away from the final of the New Basketball Brazil tournament. 

Point guard Deryk was Flamengo's top scorer of the match with 19 points, Rafael Mineiro had a double-double (13 points and 10 rebounds) and Balbi was named the best player on the court. Flamengo and Botafogo face off again on Saturday in Tijuca at 14 p.m. In the other semifinal, Franca is also leading Mogi, also 2-0, and could close out the series in the next match.

The game

The first quarter started with a strong performance from Flamengo, particularly thanks to Deryk Ramos, who converted eight of his eight attempted points in the first ten minutes. Despite performing well on offense, Flamengo saw Botafogo start to get their act together, closing the gap and preventing the deficit from getting too big. This continued, the score remained at 23-16.

The black and white team started the second period better. Despite strong plays from Jhonatan Luz, the "Mais Querido" (Most Beloved) saw their opponent close in with solid plays and three-pointers. With just over four minutes remaining, the match was tied for the first time. The teams battled point for point, but Botafogo emerged two points ahead at halftime: 38 to 40.

The match continued in the same vein for the next few minutes. As expected, the match was a battle throughout, with both sides delivering. Fla, with more chances, turned the match around and took the lead, heading into the final quarter with a 61-54 lead.

Seeing Botafogo make some mistakes, Flamengo was able to better control its lead, but always cautiously. The match became increasingly heated, with numerous fouls and battles for possession, further increasing the support of the nation in the stands and the determination on the court. Playing better, Flamengo managed to secure another victory, this time 81-69, and took a 2-0 lead in the semifinal series.