Flamengo defeats Rio Claro and takes the lead in the NBB Caixa playoffs
With a devastating first quarter, Pride of the Nation secures victory away from home
By Communication - Official Club Website - in
The Pride of the Nation got off to a strong start in the NBB Caixa playoffs. Having qualified for the quarterfinals in advance, Flamengo faced Rio Claro, who had eliminated Franca in the previous round. Despite facing a faster-paced opponent, the red-and-black team outperformed, winning the first match of the series 88-79.
Highlights
Marquinhos, who left the court with 20 points, six rebounds, three assists and three steals.
Rafa Luz, 16 points in 18 attempts (88,9% success rate), in addition to three assists and three rebounds.
The game
Flamengo's first quarter was devastating. Setting the pace and delivering a strong offensive performance, coach José Neto's team closed the first ten minutes leading 27-13. Spurred on by the home crowd, Rio Claro fought back before the end of the first half, but maintaining their balance, Orgulho da Nação took the lead into halftime, leading 43-32.
In the third quarter, Rio Claro pressed on and significantly reduced the red-and-black advantage. However, Neto stopped the game when necessary and restored the team's rhythm, which ultimately controlled the result and won the match.
Word from the commander
"Every playoff win is important. If you have a chance to win, it means you're still in the series. Opening with a win at your opponent's home ground is very important, but we know the next game is even more important. Because there's no point in winning here and then losing at home. Let's focus on the next game and try to close it out in Game 3," said José Neto.
Next matches
Flamengo hosts Rio Claro on Thursday (21) at 19 pm and on Saturday (23) at 14 pm. Both games will take place at Tijuca Tênis Clube.
Highlights
Marquinhos, who left the court with 20 points, six rebounds, three assists and three steals.
Rafa Luz, 16 points in 18 attempts (88,9% success rate), in addition to three assists and three rebounds.
The game
Flamengo's first quarter was devastating. Setting the pace and delivering a strong offensive performance, coach José Neto's team closed the first ten minutes leading 27-13. Spurred on by the home crowd, Rio Claro fought back before the end of the first half, but maintaining their balance, Orgulho da Nação took the lead into halftime, leading 43-32.
In the third quarter, Rio Claro pressed on and significantly reduced the red-and-black advantage. However, Neto stopped the game when necessary and restored the team's rhythm, which ultimately controlled the result and won the match.
Word from the commander
"Every playoff win is important. If you have a chance to win, it means you're still in the series. Opening with a win at your opponent's home ground is very important, but we know the next game is even more important. Because there's no point in winning here and then losing at home. Let's focus on the next game and try to close it out in Game 3," said José Neto.
Next matches
Flamengo hosts Rio Claro on Thursday (21) at 19 pm and on Saturday (23) at 14 pm. Both games will take place at Tijuca Tênis Clube.
The Clube de Regatas do Flamengo adult basketball team relies on direct funding from its sponsors – SKY and Estácio – in addition to investments from Tim via the State Sports Incentive Law/State Secretariat for Sports, Leisure and Youth (ICMS).